RAWALPINDI, Nov 17: Second Secretary of Italian Embassy Silvia Marrara on Friday inaugurated the medical centre at Fauji Colony, Pirwadhai, set up with the cooperation of the Italian government.

Punjab Parliamentary Secretary on Local Bodies Raja Rashid Hafeez and Rawal Town Nazim Sheikh Rashid Shafique was also present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Marrara said Pakistan and Italy were time-tested friends and the Italian government wanted to see Pakistan and its people heading towards rapid progress.

Raja Rashid Hafeez said Italy always helped Pakistan whenever it was in need. Italy also extended its help to overcome the hardship faced by the affected people of October 8 earthquake, he said.

Raja Rashid Hafeez and Sheikh Rashid Shafique also briefed the Italian second secretary about the development schemes being implemented by the Punjab government for solving public problems with regard to health, education and potable water.