A stroll through downtown Rome is enough to understand why the city earned the title of "Eternal City", and how well deserved it is. Its many and deep layers of history coexist together, overlapping in a harmonious whole. This historical stratification is invaluable for scholars, unique for the city's proud inhabitants, and fascinating for tourists from all over the world. For more than two thousand years the capital of Italy has offered an example of awe-inspiring continuity, of thriving splendour, and of a profound and diverse artistic richness. Now this city has offered to host the 2030 World Expo.
Yet, the city did not base its proposal just on the potential for strong mediatic impact, nor did it intend to capture global attention merely by invoking Rome's universal, historic fame. Instead, it opted for a distinctive, succinct programmatic slogan that implies a clearly defined and comprehensive commitment: "People and territories: urban regeneration, inclusion, and innovation". This formula addresses a challenge that is common to all countries, and relevant to the international community. It reflects the recommendations of the United Nations and of the most important multilateral forums today. Indeed, the themes selected by Rome concern the whole planet because they point to unavoidable issues that will need to be addressed worldwide. The programme's implementation is manifold as it includes development, diversity, sustainability, mobility, and digital connectivity. Rome intends to address these issues while at the same time stimulating dialogue, developing consensual solutions, and pointing to a collective path.
