Lario seeking divorce from Berlusconi

ROME, May 3 (UPI) -- Veronica Lario, the second wife of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, says she is looking to file for divorce.

The New York Times reported Sunday the 52-year-old woman was quoted by the Italian newspaper, La Repubblica, as saying she wants to end her marriage with Berlusconi ,72, who she married in 1990.

"I'd like to close the curtain on our married life," Lario reportedly said.

The media report was confirmed by an unidentified secretary for Lario, the Times said.

News of possible divorce proceedings for the couple comes in the wake of criticism from Lario regarding her husband's apparent interest in younger women.

The Times said Lario, who has three children with Berlusconi, complained to the media about Berlusconi's coalition reported plans to nominate attractive, young women for European Parliament elections.

Lario also criticized Berlusconi for reportedly attending the 18th birthday party of 18-year-old Naples resident Noemi Letizia, who has appeared in magazines semi-nude.

"That surprised me," Lario said. "Because he never attended the 18th birthday parties of his own children, even if he was invited."