The new phase initiated by the entity positions the capital of Bizkaia as a central axis for the development of the Historical Territory and Euskadi. Lehendakari Imanol Pradales stated that Bilbao must be connected with other metropolises in the country to solidify its international standing.
“"Bilbao must be connected with the rest of the country's metropolises."
The urban regeneration experienced by Bilbao and the entire Nervión estuary area in recent decades has been a result of “public-private collaboration.” Bilbao Metropoli 30's new strategy for 2050 lays the groundwork for this effort, focusing on economy, ecology, society, and strategy.
The reinvention of Bizkaia through the regeneration of Bilbao and its surrounding municipalities has moved beyond its industrial image to present an “international image.” The General Deputy of Bizkaia, Elixabete Etxanobe, highlighted that “major transformations are only possible when society and institutions decide to walk together.”
The General Assembly of Bilbao Metropoli 30, as part of its 35th anniversary, introduced its new president, Tomás Olano, who succeeds José Antonio Garrido. Garrido's work has been recognized for his role in shaping modern Bilbao.
Idoia Postigo, general director of Bilbao Metropoli 30, outlined the key milestones the entity aims to achieve in the coming years. As Imanol Pradales also emphasized, Metropolitan Bilbao must become an urban environment of centrality, dynamism, and international reference in the Atlantic Arc. The priority for the capital of Bizkaia and its surroundings is to position itself “among Europe's most advanced and recognizable medium-sized metropolises.”
The new strategy, which looks towards Metropolitan Bilbao in 2050, has “identified opportunities and anticipated scenarios” to ensure that long-term decisions create an urban environment model where “collaboration and coordination” are hallmarks. The roadmap stresses the importance of connectivity infrastructures, such as strengthening the airport, port, and railway networks, as well as fostering advanced industry and scientific-technological excellence by attracting talent. The cultural hub of Zorrotzaurre is intrinsically linked to promoting culture and creativity.
