Italy launches its aid effort for flood-devasted Libya

(ANSA) - ROME, SEP 13 - Italy on Wednesday was launching its aid effort for Libya after the North African country was hit by devastating floods that killed thousands and left many more homeless.
    Two Air Force C 130 J aeroplanes are taking off from Pisa airport on Wednesday to transport water-management experts from the fire brigade and their relative equipment and logistics material.
    The Navy's San Giorgio ship, meanwhile, has already departed for Derna to help guarantee logistical operations.
    "The defence ministry and the armed forces will give maximum support to help the Libyan people, which has been hit by a devasasting flood," said Defence Minister Guido Crosetto.
    Furthermore, the Navy's San Marco ship may be used to transport Civil Protection Department and Italian Red Cross personnel to help with the aid effort and bring material.
    This could include two helicopters to be used for search-and-rescue operations. (ANSA).