Puglia and Coast Guard sign protocol, launch major Bari port upgrades

The Regional Government of Puglia and the Italian Coast Guard (Guardia Costiera) signed a three‑year protocol in Bari to strengthen inter‑institutional collaboration on maritime safety, environmental protection and coastal surveillance. The agreement was signed by Regional President Antonio Decaro and Coast Guard Commander Sergio Liardo, who said, “This protocol is fundamental and a model to export to all other regions.”

At the same ceremony, Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Matteo Salvini announced an investment of almost €1 billion to build new berths and expand the San Cataldo quay at the Port of Bari, enhancing the Coast Guard’s capacity for navigation safety, search‑and‑rescue and traffic control. Salvini added, “We are investing in public works in Puglia as never before in the history of the Republic.” The project also includes a specialised training centre, the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Cospas‑Sarsat satellite station and a forthcoming investment plan for the Port of Taranto.

The protocol and the port upgrades aim to create a replicable model for other coastal regions such as Sardinia, Tuscany and Sicily, improving both economic development and environmental stewardship along Italy’s 900 km coastline.