Rome, backbone of the economy?

Mayor of Rome, Walter Veltroni, is seeking new powers for the capital in the mould of Paris, Berlin and London following the best growth figures in many years. Romes GDP rose by 4.1 per cent in 2004, far outstripping the 1.3 per cent national average, while putting to shame rival Milan, which posted a dismal 0.4 per cent, according to data released by research institute Prometeia. Romes tourist boom netted 900 million in VAT receipts last year, while the agricultural sector rose by 15 per cent thanks to a healthy surge in organic produce. Beyond this, several other sectors have been on the up, including services (+4.3 per cent), I.T. (+3.1 per cent) and construction (+1 per cent). Head of Unioncamere Lazio, Andrea Mondello, says that Rome has made wise investments in culture and innovation and is now reaping the rewards, highlighting how the key to success is the spirit of cooperation and partnership. Top figures in Rome now want more resources and legislative powers from the state to put Rome on an equal footing with other European capitals.