Italy envoy under fire, says working with India to resolve marine row

Describing the current standoff as 'difficult moments' for the two countries, Italian ambassador Daniele Mancini said he will not shy away from finding a solution of the marines issue. PM warns of 'consequences' | India awaits Italy's response | Kerala CM meets PM

Italy expressed confidence on Wednesday that the diplomatic row with India over its refusal to send back two Italian marines will be overcome.

Describing the current standoff as "difficult moments" for the two countries, Italian ambassador Daniele Mancini said he will not shy away from finding a solution.

"I am confident that the two mature democracies such as ours will overcome these difficulties. We are working with Indian institutions and government to do whatever best can be done to overcome these current difficult moments," Mancini said at an event.

"We will not shy away from this. It is very much present in our mind," he said, a day after the ministry of external affairs summoned him to convey India's position on this matter in the "strongest of terms".

Angered by a sudden U-turn by the Italian government which refused the return of two marines, charged with killing of two Indian fishermen last year, India demanded on Tuesday that they be sent back to face trial for homicide in the country.

India also rejected the stand of the Italian government which has gone back on its assurances.