Picture of four dudes on a plane to Italy

Prime Minister Stephen Harper is shown yesterday en route to the G-8 Summit in L'Aquila, Italy.

He is accompanied by Members Parliament Dean Del Mastro, Maurizio Bevilacqua and Paul Calandra.

Photo by Jason Ransom, office of the prime minister.

Prime Minister Harper issued the following statement this morning:

************************* Prime Minister Stephen Harper announces L'Aquila reconstruction project Canada to build youth centre in earthquake-shattered region of Italy

L’AQUILA, ITALY – Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that Canada is contributing to the rebuilding of L’Aquila and Italy’s surrounding Abruzzo region, which were devastated by a severe earthquake on April 6.

The government of Canada will contribute $5 million to create a Canadian centre for youth at the University of L’Aquila, which was badly damaged in the earthquake.

The construction of the youth centre is part of the international community’s efforts to help residents of Abruzzo rebuild their lives and their community.

"The people of Canada, and especially Canadians of Italian descent, are proud to stand with the people of Italy as they rebuild after this tragic disaster,” said the prime minister, who visited the site of the youth centre during a tour of L’Aquila, prior to taking part in the 2009 G-8 Summit.

The prime minister was joined by Senator Consiglio Di Nino and Members of Parliament Paul Calandra and Dean Del Mastro.

Over 65,000 people were left homeless by the earthquake and almost 300 lost their lives.

The Italian-Canadian community responded immediately to the crisis by raising funds to support the population of Abruzzo.

The Canadian business community has also contributed to re-construction efforts.

"This facility will provide students from L'Aquila, as well as those from Canada and around the world, with a place to learn and exchange ideas,” added the prime minister.

"This centre will also serve as a testament to the enduring bond of friendship between Canada and Italy.” The design of the centre is consistent with both Canadian standards and the surrounding environment and, where possible, will make use of Canadian anti-seismic, green technology.

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