The director of the company EXPO 2027 Belgrade, Dušan Borovčanin spoke at the largest Mastercard conference “Impact”, held in Bucharest, which for years has brought together global and regional leaders, the largest companies in Europe, think-tank organisations, and startups. At a special panel dedicated to Expo 2027 Belgrade, Borovčanin highlighted that the greatest value of Serbia’s victory in 2023, in a tight competition to host Expo 2027, was precisely the change in mindset that we are indeed capable of winning in a competition where the world’s largest countries are competing and that we can host the world’s biggest events.

“Competing and achieving victory against Americans, Spaniards, Argentinians, and Thais, who also had great ideas, showed us that we can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world. This success should bring us all newfound self-confidence and courage,” said Borovčanin. “It is now up to us to turn everything we have conceived as an idea into a top-notch programme that will leave 4 million visitors with unforgettable memories.” Speaking about the theme of the exhibition “Play for Humanity – Sport and Music for All”, the director explained that Serbia presented itself to the competition and the member states of the Bureau International des Expositions with a theme that had to be interesting enough for countries to present over 93 days, while also being inspirational enough to motivate a better future.

“None of us know what the future holds,” he said, adding that “the greatest discoveries and best results have happened to those who created in a playful, dynamic environment. We explored how important play is, not only as a part of sport and music but also as a key element in our personal development – play teaches us how to win and lose, and it significantly heals us during tough times.”

Borovčanin emphasised that play is the universal language of all nations, an integral part of every culture and identity, and he expressed his joy at having the opportunity to see how 120 countries will represent themselves and which traditional games they will showcase.

When asked what he would most like EXPO 2027 Belgrade to leave behind, Borovčanin stressed that it would be a change in mindset among Serbs. “I would love future generations, in 10 or 15 years, to have different ideas about Serbia, seeing it as a talented and progressive country.” When asked to choose one word that would describe the 2027 exhibition, he said: “EXPO 2027 should be an inspiration, not only for my generation but for future generations as well. Not just for Serbia, but for the entire region and the world.”