Mattarella urges unity after quake (2)

(ANSA) - Rome, August 24 - President Sergio Mattarella on Wednesday called for unity and solidarity after a devastating 6.0 magnitude quake left scores dead in central Italy. "This is a time of pain and a call for common responsibility," he said in a statement. "The country as a whole must stand by the stricken populations with solidarity". "My first thoughts go out to the victims of this devastating seism which has struck such a large portion of the national territory. I wish to thank local authorities, civil protection services, fire fighters, police, the armed forces, and volunteers for their commitment and dedication in the rescue operations. We must focus all our forces to save human lives in the immediate term, to aid the injured and ensure the best possible conditions for the displaced".
    The president said after that, a common effort will be needed to rebuild destroyed towns and villages. Mattarella has been in close contact with civil protection officials since the early hours of Wednesday.