Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has pledged his support for Milan’s international showcase event Expo 2015 despite the arrest of seven managers and former MPs in a corruption scandal.<br /><br />Italy hopes the event will create thousands of jobs and boost its economy by generating billions of euros in revenue.<br /><br />According to Reuters, the 600-page arrest warrant exposes widespread corruption and bid-rigging. <br /><br />Prosecuters said the seven detained were part of a “criminal ring aimed at influencing procurement” by promising career advancement to public officials through political protection.<br /><br />The arrests took place during a visit by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon which was meant to mark the start of Expo’s partnership with the United Nations.<br /><br />Planning and construction for Expo 2015 has been going on for more than six years. It is expected to attract millions of visitors next year.<br /><br />More than 140 countries, from Saudi Arabis to Vatican City, will have pavilions at the Expo.
