Italy's indicted Berlusconi says he's not worried

ALESSANDRA RIZZO Yahoo! News 02/16/2011 16:49

Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi showed aplomb in the face of charges that could end his political career, saying Wednesday he isn't worried about his impending prostitution trial or calls for his resignation.

It was the first public comment by the 74-year-old leader since he was indicted Tuesday on charges he paid for sex with a 17-year-old Moroccan girl and then used his influence to cover it up.

He spoke shortly before holding talks and a working dinner with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, his first international meeting since the indictment.

Berlusconi has denied any wrongdoing, dismissing the accusations as "groundless" and the case as a "farce" and a "shame." He has accused prosecutors of trying to topple his government.

On Wednesday, the premier dodged questions about the case during a news conference on economic themes in Rome and, in contrast with recent days, did not go on the offensive to defend himself.

"Out of love of my country, I won't talk about this," Berlusconi told reporters. "I can only say one thing: I'm not worried at all."

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