21/04/2010 (Agence Europe) - A relay race from Alessandria in Northern Italy to Strasbourg in France to draw attention to the fate of Somali civilians is being organised by the Italian association 'Stella Bianca - Laura Garavelli.' A dozen runners spent five days running between the two cities, carrying a torch in the shape of the country of Somalia. MEP Gianni Pittella (S&D, Italy) was there to welcome the runners on Tuesday 20 April 2010 alongside the race's promoter, fellow Italian Oreste Rossi (EFD). Pittella said that humanity's tenaciousness could be pitted against the problems posed by Nature and if it is not possible to take a plane, at least people can use their legs and run. The relay race in solidarity with Somalia aims to encourage the EU institutions to do more for the country. The participants want the European Parliament to pass a resolution on Somalia and for the European Commission to promote the organisations of a peace conference for the country. (A.B.)