WASHINGTON, June 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Pelosi gave brief remarks at the Italian Earthquake Commemoration Ceremony this evening at the Italian Embassy. The Ceremony coincides with the Italian National Day Celebration and recognizes the catastrophic damage to the region during the earthquakes earlier this year. Below are her remarks as prepared:

"Thank you, Mr. Ambassador for that kind introduction.

"Ambassador Castellaneta represents the Italian Republic in the United States with the upmost dignity. His leadership has only served to strengthen the more than six decade long U.S.--Italian alliance, and that was clear during my recent trip to Italy in February.

"I was honored to accept the Ambassador's invitation to join you this evening to honor those lost in the terrible earthquake that struck Abruzzo in April.

"As someone who can trace my family's roots back to Venice, Genoa, Campobasso, Sicily, and Abruzzo, I felt personally committed to ensuring that the United States provided all possible assistance.

"Soon after this disaster struck, I called President Berlusconi on behalf of my colleagues in the Congress to express our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those lost.

"Having visited Italy as part of a U.S. delegation in the aftermath of the earthquake in Southern Italy in 1980, I have seen firsthand the courage of the Italian people in the face of a similar tragedy.

"The United States and the world have made clear our support for the Italian people by offering humanitarian aid to those affected in Abruzzo.

"It is estimated that Americans have already donated $1.7 million to this effort, a figure that is only expected to grow.

"Even in tragedy, the Italian people have shown courage and strength, as exemplified by Danilo Di Luca, the Italian cyclist who committed himself to winning Stage 17 of the Giro, which passed through his home region of Abruzzo.

"It was heartening to see thousands of fans line the race route and cheer Di Luca on to victory.

"While he fell seconds short of his goal, Di Luca rallied the Italian people with his effort and demonstrated the fortitude of the Italian people that will help Abruzzo recover and rebuild.

"America is a land discovered by an Italian, named for an Italian, and built by millions of Italian Americans.

"Our bond is uniquely strong because of the vital role daughters and sons of Italy have played in the United States from its discovery to today.

"In times of crisis, we come to each other's aid. That is because the United States has no greater friend in Europe than Italy, and Italy has no greater friend in the world than the United States.

"Today, we mourn those lost in Abruzzo and those struggling to rebuild their lives. We hope that it is some comfort that so many people throughout the world are thinking of them and praying for them at this difficult time. We will help them rebuild and reclaim their lives.

"God bless America. Viva Italia!"

SOURCE Office of the Speaker of the House

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