The Afghan government said that it was in contact with an abducted Italian aid worker, who was in good health, and her kidnappers and was optimistic she would be released unharmed. "We have spoken with Clementina Cantoni," Interior Ministry spokesman Lutfullah Mashal told AFP. "Her health condition and safety is ensured." He added that the government was "in constant contact" with the people claiming to be the kidnappers. "We are very optimistic that Ms. Clementina will be peacefully released," he said. "We are sparing no efforts to get her peaceful release, but there will be no concession to kidnappers."