Scandal-hit Berlusconi seeks sobriety by hosting G-8

Rome (Italy), June 29 (ANI): Facing a series of domestic scandals that would have embarrassed Roman Emperor Tiberius, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has decided to take the sobriety route by announcing the program for this year's G-8 summit.

A spokesman for Berlusconi said the summit had been moved from the Sardinian resort of La Maddalena to the devastated town in Abruzzo, central Italy, partly to bring a degree of "sobriety" to proceedings in a time of international crisis.

Berlusconi, he said, will say that the economic crisis and the need for greater financial regulation, food supplies for developing countries and climate change are the key issues facing the informal but exclusive gathering of the world's seven richest nations, plus Russia, to be held in earthquake-torn L'Aquila from 8 to 10 July.

Events in Iran, the Middle East conflict, and international security issues will also be high on the agenda.

The spokesman for the Prime Minister insisted that, "with two G-8s already under his belt", he would bring experience and problem-solving ability to the summit.

The G5 nations - China, Brazil, Mexico, India and South Africa, plus Egypt, which Italy regards as "an important, Arab, Muslim and Middle-Eastern country" will also be represented.

Thirty leaders will appear over three days.(ANI)