State funeral planned for Italy’s quake dead

08/04/09 20:15 CET

world news

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Field camps are dotted across the quake-stricken Abruzzo region in Italy, providing temporary shelter for survivors. But many are asking how long they will be calling the tents home.

Nearly 30,000 people have been made homeless by Monday’s violent quake that hit central Italy. More than half of those are living in tents. Others are being put up in nearby hotels. Others still have found their own accommodation. Although the search through the rubble goes on, the chances of finding survivors are now very slim. At least 260 people perished, while 100 others are seriously injured. A mass state funeral for the victims and a national day of mourning are expected to be held on Friday.More about: Earthquake, Italy

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Mali: Rebel groups agree to creation of Islamic state

Two Rebel groups have agreed to merge and create an independent Islamic state in Northern Mali. After seizing Azawad – an area larger than France – two months ago, the groups had initially disagreed, with the secular Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA)…