This Monday, within the framework of the General Assembly of Bilbao Metropoli 30, the significant work of the association in the transformation of the Bizkaia capital and its metropolitan area over the last decades has been highlighted. The dedication, strategic reflection, and commitment to the territory's development by the entity's president for 35 years have been acknowledged.
“"Thank you for your mission, vision, and values. For helping us draw the metropolis we enjoy today. For inviting us to dream and make dreams come true, above doubts, suspicions, and unfair complexes."
Initial hesitations were recalled, when in the 90s Bilbao was questioned, even being described by some as “the city of models and projects.” However, this skepticism did not prevent Bilbao from being recognized as an international benchmark for urban regeneration. This transformation was possible thanks to a shared vision based on “looking back at the estuary” as a future axis and an engine for economic, social, and urban modernization.
“"Through collaboration and courage, you succeeded. With an idea simple in its formulation, but revolutionary in its transformation: for Bilbao to look back at the estuary to shape its future. And yes, Bilbao embraced the estuary it had turned its back on and entered the 21st century with force."
The concept of Euskal Hiria has been defended, emphasizing the need to follow the path opened by Bilbao Metropoli 30 and renew paradigms in a global context marked by major urban, technological, and social challenges. It has been noted that the transformation process is “unfinished” and continues to extend throughout the metropolitan estuary.
The Bilbao metropolis, connected with the rest of Euskadi's urban areas, must contribute to forming a “great connected Basque metropolis,” the Euskal Hiria, with the aim of becoming an urban, economic, and cultural reference within the European Atlantic Arc.
