Milan is the capital of the Lombardy region, and the most populous metropolitan area in Italy. The population of the city proper is 1.3 million and that of the Metropolitan City of Milan is 3,2 million. The built-up-urban area (that stretches beyond the boundaries of the Metropolitan City of Milan) has a population estimated to be about 5.2 million, ranking 4th in the European Union. It is the main industrial and financial centre of Italy and one of global significance. In terms of GDP, it has the largest economy among European non-capital cities. Milan is considered part of the Blue Banana and lies at the heart of one of the Four Motors for Europe.
Milan is much interested in developing innovative solutions to achieve an inclusive Urban Development, that embraces suburbs and connect rural areas around the city. Moreover, Milan wants to continue to be prominent among global smart cities, a leading urban laboratory in the field of sustainable development, green solutions and incubator for innovative business model and social inclusion and diversity.