On December 10, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (Central European Time, CET), Fuzhou University and the University of Messina (Italy) jointly hold an online and offline inauguration ceremony for the “Joint International Research Laboratory on Innovative Techniques for Earthquake Risk Mitigation” at the Office of the Dean of the Peloritano College, University of Messina.
Professor Ernesto Cascone, Head of the Department of Engineering at the University of Messina, Professor Huihui Yuan, Assistant Dean of the College of Civil Engineering at Fuzhou University, and Engineer Santi Trovato, President of the Messina Engineers Association, delivered speeches in sequence. All pointed out that seismic hazards threaten human life, property, and social development, and emphasized that strengthening international scientific research cooperation, resource sharing, and talent exchange is the key to addressing this challenge. The joint laboratory established by the two universities will build a high-quality platform for global research on earthquake disaster reduction.
Subsequently, Professors Bruno Briseghella and Pierfrancesco Cacciola from Fuzhou University introduced the university’s scientific research facilities related to earthquake disaster reduction, such as the structural seismic testing platform and the structural seismic simulation analysis system, as well as its academic strengths in disciplines including structural engineering and disaster prevention and mitigation engineering, along with recent scientific research achievements. Professor Dario De Domenico from the University of Messina, on the other hand, elaborated on the profound accumulation of the university’s Department of Engineering in fields such as seismology and geotechnical engineering. He mentioned that the university, founded in 1548, has long focused on Mediterranean seismic research and has produced influential achievements in areas such as earthquake early warning and seismic retrofitting of buildings.
It is reported that the laboratory will focus on key research directions such as seismic hazard risk assessment, development of new seismic-resistant structures, innovation of emergency rescue equipment, and transnational joint prevention and control mechanisms in the future. Through various forms including joint project applications, co-construction of platforms, graduate student training, and organization of forums, it will promote the international sharing and transformation of research achievements, contributing “China-Italy wisdom” and “China-Italy solutions” to reducing seismic losses and safeguarding the sustainable development of society.
