The 2.3-mile-long bridge between the mainland and Sicily is expected to be finished by 2033, the Italian government says.

After decades of discussion, Italy has finally approved a $15.6 billion project to build the world’s longest suspension bridge. Reportedly, the Straight of Messina suspension bridge is expected to connect Sicily to the Italian mainland region of Calabria.

Rome has given final approval to a €13.5bn ($15.6bn) project to build the world's longest suspension bridge, connecting the island of Sicily to the region of Calabria, on the tip of Italy's boot.