U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he has sent letters to Italian officials, especially President Napolitano and Foreign Minister Bonino, urging the country to keep its Philadelphia consulate open. Recently, Italy announced that it was considering closing the consulate.

In his letter, Senator Casey cited the critical role that the city's strong ties to Italy has played for the region's economy through job creation and trade. In 2010, the region accounted for approximately $300 million in exports to Italy. 

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Source: http://www.timesherald.com