Belgrade Welcomes the World: Over 150 Countries Attend the First International Planning Meeting for EXPO 2027

Belgrade has become the center of global attention with the opening of the first International Planning Meeting (IPM) for participation in the Specialized Expo in 2027. Representatives from as many as 154 countries gathered in the Serbian capital, including over 400 high-level officials - ministers, state secretaries, and directors of national institutions from sectors such as trade, economy, culture, sports, tourism, innovation, education, and youth.

This significant gathering marks the official beginning of a new phase in the preparations for Expo 2027 Belgrade. Secretary General of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), Dimitri Kerkentzes, emphasized that this moment represents the start of a new chapter - not only for Serbia, but for the entire region and the global community. “For the first time, a Specialized Expo will be held in the Western Balkans - a region rich in cultural heritage, diversity, and extraordinary creative energy,” Kerkentzes stated.

During the two-day meeting, delegations from around the world will have the opportunity to explore in detail the exhibition’s theme, “Play for Humanity,” as well as the master plan, construction phases, logistics, operations, and digital platforms available to them. Special focus has been placed on technical guidelines for the design and construction of pavilions.

Director of Expo 2027 Belgrade, Dušan Borovčanin, noted that this event is a chance for the world to see the efforts invested in the organization, while also laying the foundation for further partnerships and cooperation with participating countries. “We want Expo 2027 to be an exhibition of dialogue, innovation, and shared ideas that will shape a better tomorrow—not only for the region, but for all of humanity,” said Borovčanin.

During the IPM, delegations will visit the construction site of the Expo complex. At the Belgrade Fair, they will also experience a preview of the upcoming exhibition through the interactive setup “Expo Playground,” which will soon open to the public. This space offers them the opportunity to get a sense of the exhibition’s spirit and to conceptualize their own national presentations within it.

Expo 2027 in Belgrade is drawing closer, and this historic welcome shows that the world is ready to play - for knowledge, cooperation, and humanity.