Milan ready to follow lead of Shanghai

Ties to China set to grow as commercial center plans major expo

Milan, Italy's business and fashion capital, will be in global spotlight this year and next. And China will be taking part in many of its events as well as supporting the city, officials say.

Italy began its half-year rotating presidency of the European Union in July, which will draw related events to Milan. In mid-October, about 50 leaders, including Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, will gather in the northern Italian city for the 10th Asia-Europe Meeting Summit.