ROME - Italy insisted April 15 that its fighter jets would not take part in bombardments in Libya, saying that the country was doing enough to support the U.N. resolution to protect civilian lives.
Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi told members of parliament at a cabinet meeting that Rome was "already doing enough" as part of the international coalition, government sources were cited on ANSA news agency as reporting.
"Bearing in mind our geographical position and colonial past, an engagement that goes beyond our current commitment would not make sense," he said.
Defence Minister Ignazio La Russa also ruled out a change of course for Italy, telling reporters at a press conference after the meeting that Italy had "already done a lot."
"We are not considering altering our contribution to military operations in Libya...we will carry on as we have done up to now. The government is united in thinking this is the correct line for Italy to take," he said.
Berlusconi said Italy's role was to "provide the maximum support with its air bases," seven of which have been put up for use by the coalition.
Italy has also taken part in air raids over Libya but only in order to neutralize Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi's radar and defense systems.
Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi told members of parliament at a cabinet meeting that Rome was "already doing enough" as part of the international coalition, government sources were cited on ANSA news agency as reporting.
"Bearing in mind our geographical position and colonial past, an engagement that goes beyond our current commitment would not make sense," he said.
Defence Minister Ignazio La Russa also ruled out a change of course for Italy, telling reporters at a press conference after the meeting that Italy had "already done a lot."
"We are not considering altering our contribution to military operations in Libya...we will carry on as we have done up to now. The government is united in thinking this is the correct line for Italy to take," he said.
Berlusconi said Italy's role was to "provide the maximum support with its air bases," seven of which have been put up for use by the coalition.
Italy has also taken part in air raids over Libya but only in order to neutralize Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi's radar and defense systems.
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