Italy PM calls on coalition partners to remain united to face crisis

Italy's prime minister on Wednesday urged members of his coalition government to stay united as the country grapples with a public health emergency and an economic crisis.

"These are massive, very demanding challenges," Giuseppe Conte said on Facebook, adding that it was essential to "reinforce the cohesion of the majority and the solidity of the government team".

Conte's relations with coalition partner and former premier Matteo Renzi have deteriorated markedly in recent weeks and a showdown could bring down his government.