Maroni shrugs off Renzi criticism about Expo complaints

(ANSA) - Bologna, June 11 - Lombardy Governor Roberto Maroni shrugged off criticisms from Italy's premier, saying Wednesday that the region "did what it had to do" in raising concerns that Milan Expo 2015 may not be ready in time for the event's opening.
    "We did what we had to do...so his accusations are totally unfounded," Maroni said in response to complaints from Premier Matteo Renzi that Maroni was creating controversy.
    One day earlier, Maroni said there is a risk that Milan Expo 2015 structures may not be complete by the April 30 deadline.
    The World's Fair is scheduled to open on May 1 and continue through October 31 next year in an area of more than 100 hectares near Milan's massive Rho Pero trade fair exhibition centre. Renzi, on a trade mission to China, responded Tuesday by saying that Maroni should not raise "sterile controversy" but instead "reflect on the responsibility of Lombardy" to ensure a successful Expo.
    The pair come from different political parties: Renzi leads the centre-left Democratic Party while Maroni represents the regionalist Northern League.
    So far 144 countries, representing 94% of the world's population, and three international organizations are set to put their best on show. Maroni's deadline warning comes as prosecutors probe alleged bid-rigging and corruption among Expo organizers in Milan. Expo is expected to attract over 20 million visitors and to be a massive money spinner for Italy's business capital.
    Preparations on the site have been underway for years.