Italy pushes ahead with Strait of Messina Bridge as experts call it historic

The Italian government will ask the Superior Council of Public Works (Cipess) for its opinion on the Strait of Messina Bridge in the coming days, a step required before the project can move forward. The bridge is included in a recent decree and, together with a new transport‑regulation authority report, is meant to unlock the bridge’s construction schedule.

Egyptologist Zahi Hawass has praised the bridge, likening it to the great Egyptian pyramids and describing it as a work that will “enter history.” His endorsement was echoed by Lega senator Tilde Minasi, who highlighted the project’s potential to create thousands of jobs, boost high‑speed rail, tourism and Mediterranean logistics. Project promoter Simone Veronese and local political groups stress the bridge’s seismic safety standards and argue that opposition attempts to halt the work would deprive the Mezzogiorno of crucial economic growth.