ROME — The global economic downturn may be showing signs of improvement, but Italy kept its gifts to journalists modest this year compared with the high-tech gadgets handed out last July in Toyako, Hokkaido.

Media press kits, traditionally prepared by the host government of the Group of Eight summit as souvenirs, were handed out in L'Aquila from Wednesday through Friday.

While the souvenir at last year's Toyako summit included eco-friendly wristwatches, rechargeable batteries and USB flashlights, this year's event yielded hand towels, card cases and a photo book of L'Aquila. The set was bundled in a navy blue bag pack, worth 10 euro to 15 euro, according to some online stores.

Some journalists could be heard complaining as they left town.