TELEGRAM FOR LAST NIGHT'S EARTHQUAKE IN ALGERIA

VATICAN CITY, MAY 22, 2003 (VIS) - The following text is a telegram sent by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, secretary of State, in the Pope's name, to Archbishop Augustine Kasujja, apostolic nuncio in Algeria, for the earthquake which occurred in the country last night:

"In the face of the terrible earthquake which just struck the region of Argel, the Pope asks God Almighty to accept in His mercy all those who perished in this tragedy. He prays also for those who have been injured, as well as for the labor of the rescue team and for all the families affected by this drama, hoping that they find the consolation that they need and especially solidarity. The Holy Father offers his most sincere condolences to the Head of State, the government and to the family members of the victims, and he assures the Algerian people of his closeness in this new trial."

TGR;ALGERIA;...;SODANO; KASUJJA;VIS;20030522;Word: 160;