The official visit of a delegation led by the Florida Secretary of Transportation highlighted the interest in the port of Genoa, during the second meeting of the Florida–Italy Ports & Logistics MOU Working Group at Palazzo San Giorgio. The meeting emphasised the infrastructural and logistical potential of the Ligurian port system, with particular focus on ongoing projects and prospects for cooperation.
Genoa 19 September
Site visit and technical surveys | Genoa 19 September. The delegation, which included Deputy Minister Edoardo Rixi, President of the Western Ligurian Sea Port System Authority Matteo Paroli, and Chief of Staff of the Liguria Region Admiral Massimiliano Nannini, conducted a reconnaissance of the Port of Genoa both by sea and from above, aboard a helicopter. This allowed them to appreciate the layout and specialisations of the various port basins, including Sampierdarena with its multipurpose vocation and Pra’ dedicated to container traffic. During the flyover, progress on the new breakwater, one of the largest infrastructure projects in the Mediterranean, and the strategic role of Genoa Airport, in which the Port System Authority holds a significant share, were highlighted.
Comparisons and Territorial Specificities | As highlighted by President Paroli, the Ligurian morphology, characterised by hills close to the coast, results in greater complexity and higher costs for the construction and upgrading of infrastructure compared to areas such as Florida. This peculiarity is particularly evident in motorway works, where the cost per kilometre significantly exceeds the American average. Within this context, the investment of over one billion euros allocated to the last mile, supported by the Italian government, represents a significant commitment to keeping the port of Genoa competitive on a global scale.
Prospects for cooperation and development | Deputy Minister Rixi emphasised that the aerial inspection provided an opportunity to demonstrate the progress of works on the new outer breakwater, highlighting the Port of Genoa’s ability to establish itself as a strategic hub for international trade. As he stated, “we want our partners to see for themselves the potential of Genoa and Liguria, which aim to play a central role in the development of global maritime connections.” The meeting represents a step towards broader collaboration on topics such as innovation and energy, strengthening ties with Florida.
Institutional Role and Coordination | The initiative saw the direct involvement of the General Command and the Port Authority of Genoa, whose contribution was deemed crucial for the successful outcome of the visit. The synergy between the various local and international institutions aims to strengthen the position of the port of Genoa on the global stage, enhancing its unique features and the infrastructure currently under development.
(Red. Corsara)