"Serbia is well-positioned within the Expo member states. We earned the highest score, surpassing strong competitors like the United States, Argentina, Spain, and Thailand. These countries all vied to host Expo 2027, underscoring its importance. Serbia is the only one to succeed, opening numerous opportunities for the region—not just for 2027, but for decades beyond," says Dušan Borovčanin, director of the EXPO 2027 Belgrade enterprise.

Borovčanin highlights that Expo is a global exhibition showcasing tradition, culture, innovation, and science, emphasizing the host country’s chosen theme, rather than a trade fair, as some have suggested. "We expect over 4 million visitors from more than 120 countries and international organizations during the 93 days of the event. They will have the chance to discover our country, traditions, culture, and people. I am confident that, in addition to leaving with unforgettable experiences and a desire to return as tourists, we will establish numerous new partnerships across various sectors, particularly in service industries, science, and technological development," Borovčanin states.

Speaking about investments and the cost of organizing the Specialized Expo, Borovčanin notes that Expo in Belgrade involves one of the lowest investments compared to previous exhibitions, amounting to €1.2 billion. However, this investment reflects a strong commitment to legacy and the use of this space beyond 2027. "In Surčin, a new city will emerge—a new home for the Belgrade Fair, a hub for developing skills and competencies in music, sports, and innovation for young people, and a new museum complex that will attract not only our citizens but also tourists. By creating these facilities, we have positioned ourselves to host major global events, such as international congresses, conferences, sports, and entertainment events, for which we previously lacked the capacity," Borovčanin explains.

"I understand that many citizens are still unfamiliar with what Expo truly is and whether it brings real benefits to Serbia, especially considering that few people in Serbia have had the chance to visit past exhibitions. Additionally, this is the first time Expo is coming to the Western Balkans," Borovčanin said. He further points out that Paris has hosted Expo six times, the United States also six times, Brussels four times, and London and Barcelona twice each. Iconic structures like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Crystal Palace in London, the Ferris Wheel in Chicago, and the Atomium in Brussels were built for Expos. He also emphasizes that the last Expo in Dubai achieved diplomatic advancements in a few months that would have otherwise taken 40 years, further demonstrating the significance of this global event, which has been shaping the world since 1851.

Borovčanin urged citizens to learn more about this monumental event: "Recognizing the historical importance and the need for Expo to bring the world together, foster dialogue, and shape a better future, I hope the people of Serbia will better understand our desire to host Expo 2027 and realize the substantial benefits it will bring to Serbia and its citizens as we share more information about what awaits us in 2027."

In November, the Bureau International des Expositions unanimously confirmed Serbia as the host of Expo 2027. Following the Bureau’s protocol, Serbia regularly updates member states on its progress. Interest in participation continues to grow globally. The first countries to confirm participation include Switzerland, Turkey, and several African nations, and by the end of the year, 100 countries are expected to officially join. "Interest is immense, and member states have expressed their eagerness to visit Serbia and craft their contributions to our theme, ‘Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for All.’ I am confident that we will be excellent hosts and represent our country in the best possible way," Borovčanin concludes.