by Nina Vacavikova
Interviews: FVG governor, Massimiliano Fedriga; Marco Consalvo, president of Trieste and Monfalcone ports
At a forum on infrastructure and regional development held this Wednesday, 29 April, at Trieste Airport in Ronchi dei Legionari, regional leaders from Friuli Venezia Giulia and Veneto gathered to discuss the future of transport networks and economic competitiveness in northeastern Italy.
Friuli Venezia Giulia Governor Massimiliano Fedriga said stronger logistical cooperation between the two regions is essential to build an integrated infrastructure system capable of competing globally. He pointed to the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (Imec) as a strategic alternative trade route, arguing it could help protect Mediterranean commerce amid geopolitical instability and shifting global shipping patterns, including the growth of Arctic routes.
Fedriga also stressed the importance of key regional hubs such as the Port of Trieste and Trieste Airport, calling for further investment to strengthen connectivity, particularly given current limits in high-speed rail links. He highlighted recent efforts to enhance the airport’s competitiveness, including a partnership with Ryanair and the abolition of the boarding tax, and said work is ongoing to expand air traffic and cargo operations.
The governor urged closer coordination among regional institutions across the Northeast, saying long-term development requires a shared strategy that goes beyond individual administrations.
Marco Consalvo, the president of Trieste and Monfalcone ports, confirmed that the tender for Molo VIII is expected to be awarded before the end of the year, while the Servola project could open for bids by the end of May.
The forum, titled “Infrastructure, Networks and Territory in the Northeast,” also featured Veneto Governor Alberto Stefani and Regional Councillors Riccardo Riccardi and Cristina Amirante.
