Italian marines party at Vatican Embassy

The duo was seen freely mingling with the guests shaking hands with them.

(Photo Courtesy: new India express)

New Delhi:  The Italian marines, who are facing trial for the killing of two Indian fishermen, seem to be having a good time in India.

Massimiliano Latorre and Salvatore Girone Saturday attended a birthday party at the Vatican Embassy in New Delhi.

The occasion was the 50th birthday party of Monseigneur Gian Franco, Counsellor at the Embassy.

Along with the two marines, Italian Ambassador to India Daniele Mancini and a prominent political leader of the ruling party in Italy were also present from the Italian side.

There were around 50 guests at the party and the menu included beer, wine and Italian food.

The duo was seen freely mingling with the guests shaking hands with them, according to a source who attended the party.

“They were seen puffing on cigarettes frequently,’’ said the source.

It is not for the first time that the accused Italian marines have visited the Vatican Embassy. The duo had been regularly attending the Sunday Mass at the Embassy chapel.

“They have also attended the Easter Mass at the Chapel at the Vatican Embassy. And every time, they were accompanied by Italian Ambassador Mancini,’’ said another source.

The marines are currently lodged at the Italian Embassy.

The guest list also included ambassadors from other countries.

The Italian Government had agreed to send the marines back to India for trial after its initial refusal.

Source: new India express