The President of the Republic Sergio
Mattarella does not force government representatives to be
present on missions but their presence is always welcome, the
Quirinale press office said Tuesday.
"This is how it has always been, since the start of
(Mattarella's) first seven-year term" in office, said Quirinale
press adviser Giovanni Grasso.
"On such occasions the Quirinale has never given invitations.
But if someone wants to come, they are welcome," he added.
The comment came after Civil Protection Minister Nello Musumeci
said it is "too bad" no-one from the government has been invited
to accompany Mattarella to flood-ravaged Emilia Romagna on
Tuesday.
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