A long-delayed and debated span linking the Italian mainland with Sicily cleared a major hurdle Wednesday, allowing work to begin on what would be the world's longest suspension bridge.

Transport Minister Matteo Salvini said the project will boost development in southern Italy, but it has raised security and environmental concerns.View on euronews

Italy’s government has approved a project to build the world’s longest suspension bridge that will connect Sicily to the Italian mainland.The proposed bridge spanning the Strait of Messina will have a two-mile suspended span.