Italian President speaks to marines

The two Italian marines - Latore Massimilliano and Salvatore Girone - who got a conditional nod from the Kerala High Court to go home, had a surprise in store on Thursday.

Italian President Giorgio Napolitano spoke to them over phone while addressing the Italian soldiers who are part of the peacekeeping forces across the globe. The President said the people of Italy have been keenly watching and following the developments of the current situation. They expressed the hope that they would meet the President at the Presidential Palace to exchange Christmas greetings.

 According to the conditions set by the High Court, the marines along with Italian Ambassador to India Giacomo Sanfelice and Consul General will go to the CJM Court in Kollam on Friday to complete the formalities there. They are likely to fly back on Friday.