Ilham Aliyev offers condolences to Mattarella over quake

By  Trend

Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev extended condolences to Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella on Aug. 24 over the casualties as a result of an earthquake in the country.

“We were deeply saddened by the news of the heavy casualties and major damage caused by the earthquake in your country,” said Aliyev in a letter of condolences.

“On behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on my own behalf, I extend my deep condolences to you, the bereaved families, the loved ones of those who died and the people of Italy, and wish the injured recovery,” he added. “I hope that the consequences of this natural disaster will be eliminated as soon as possible.”

A strong, shallow earthquake devastated towns in central Italy early Wednesday. The 6.2-magnitude earthquake badly damaged villages in a mountainous rural area of central Italy that is a popular vacation spot.