Italy’s government has greenlit the long-debated Messina Strait Bridge, fulfilling what Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini called “a centuries-old promise to Sicilians and Calabrians.” Speaking at a press conference in Villa San Giovanni following final approval by the Cipess economic planning committee, Salvini declared: “Now the ball passes to engineers, architects, and technicians. Property owners facing expropriation will receive higher compensation, and workers will be on site starting September. I am truly proud.”
Salvini emphasized the project’s impact on youth retention and employment: “It’s emotional, especially thinking of young people who graduate then flee these beautiful lands. This globally watched infrastructure will bring thousands of jobs, bringing youth home. Beyond saving time on car and train journeys and reducing pollution, it will transform Messina and Reggio Calabria – including a Strait Metro system. This means less pollution, fewer traffic jams, and daily focus on fighting organized crime.”
He acknowledged the project’s contentious history: “Few would have bet on approval of this fully funded final design. We’ve never reached such an advanced stage before. I like challenges.” Salvini linked the bridge to high-speed rail development, stating: “The bridge serves its purpose only if high-speed rail reaches Reggio Calabria – which is being planned. The bridge will accelerate ongoing works.” When questioned about risks, he cited his government’s stability: “We have a solid, cohesive government with two years ahead, and potentially five more. We won’t leave loose ends.”
In a separate interview, Salvini confirmed enhanced compensation for expropriated properties in Sicily and Calabria, calling the bridge “a development accelerator” necessitating high-speed rail to Reggio Calabria.
International Media Reaction**
The approval drew global attention with mixed perspectives. The New York Times reported Italy “approves bridge project to connect Sicily to the mainland,” noting government claims of job creation and economic uplift countered by critics’ environmental and social concerns. CNN described it as “Italy gives final go-ahead to landmark bridge to Sicily,” a “priority for Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing government” facing “stiff opposition.”
The BBC highlighted funding tactics: “Italy gives final approval for world’s longest suspension bridge to Sicily,” stating Rome aims “to classify the bridge as military spending to meet NATO’s 5% GDP defence target.” The Guardian framed it as “a dream of ex-PM Berlusconi, revived by the Meloni government,” quoting MP Angelo Bonelli (Avs) calling it a “colossal waste of money.” Le Monde noted the “Italian government agreement to build the world’s longest suspension bridge,” calling it a “titanic project sparking debate and protest.” Germany’s Süddeutsche Zeitung observed: “An ancient Roman dream is about to be realized,” citing the €13.5 billion cost and enduring controversy despite years of discussion.
(Based on reporting by ANSA)*