Indicted Italian leader not worried about trial

ROME -- Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi said Wednesday he is not worried by an impending prostitution trial, where embarrassing testimony could end his political career.

In his first public comments since his indictment, Berlusconi dodged questions about the case during a news conference on economic themes in Rome.

He said that he would not be speaking about the case "out of love of my country" but added: "I can only say one thing, I'm not worried at all."

The 74-year-old Italian leader was ordered Tuesday to stand trial on charges he paid a 17-year-old Moroccan girl for sex, then used his influence to cover it up. The trial is set to begin on April 6.

Berlusconi denies wrongdoing. He has dismissed the accusations as "groundless."

The indictment was a serious challenge to Berlusconi's grip of power at a time when the premier is weakened by a split with an ex-ally.

It reignited calls for Berlusconi's resignation, with the opposition contending the scandal, with revelations of allegedly wild parties at the premier's villas with scantily clad women, has embarrassed Italy and damaged its image abroad.

But Berlusconi insisted Wednesday that he and his government ally, the Northern League party, are united and "determined to continue the legislature until its natural end."

Berlusconi was elected in 2008. The next parliamentary elections are scheduled in 2013.