Italy reviews Strait of Messina bridge timeline at Palazzo Chigi

On 23 July, senior Italian ministers gathered at Palazzo Chigi to examine the latest schedule for the Strait of Messina bridge project ahead of a new Cipess (Inter‑ministerial Committee for Economic Programming and Sustainable Development) review. Attendees included Transport Minister Matteo Salvini, Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, State Secretary Alessandro Morelli, State Accountant Daria Perrotta and Pietro Ciucci, CEO of the Stretto di Messina company.

The meeting focused on the actions required by decree law 32/2026, which sets out a detailed, transparent procedure to address the Court of Auditors’ observations. Key steps already achieved are the May approval of a new Agreement Program by the Court, a positive opinion from the Transport Regulatory Authority on the Economic‑Financial Plan, and the pending opinion from the Superior Council of Public Works. Officials also reported ongoing dialogue with the European Commission confirming the project’s compatibility with EU rules and noting no infringement proceedings.

Minister Salvini reiterated that the bridge’s financing is secured and that the work remains a strategic infrastructure priority for Italy’s southern development and European connectivity.