Today, in the presence of the members of the Imperial Family and Japan’s highest-ranking officials, the World Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai officially concluded with a grand closing ceremony, marking the end of 184 days that brought together 28 million visitors from all parts of the world.
This ceremony marked the conclusion of one of this year’s most significant global events, highlighting Japan’s remarkable success and demonstrating the power of international cooperation, the uniqueness of each nation’s identity, and how today’s innovations create a new and better path towards the future.
During the official closing ceremony, representatives of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), President of the General Assembly Alain Berger and Secretary General Dimitri Kerkentzes, handed over the BIE flag to the host of the next Specialised Exhibition, Expo 2027 Belgrade. On behalf of Serbia and EXPO 2027 d.o.o. Belgrade, the flag was received by Danilo Jerinić, Director of Expo 2027 d.o.o. Belgrade, together with Dušan Borovčanin, Adviser to the Director.
On this occasion, Jerinić emphasised that the handover of the BIE flag represented a great honour and privilege for Serbia, Belgrade, and the entire team behind the project.
“In this way, we are continuing our journey towards 2027 and all the activities that lie ahead. We proudly move forward, fulfilling all our commitments to our partners who have recognised us as a reliable international partner,” said Jerinić.
He reminded that 122 countries had so far confirmed their participation in Expo 2027, which represented a great obligation and responsibility for Serbia.
“Here in Japan, we have had the opportunity to see how everything works. We have gathered a great deal of valuable experience, and I am confident that we will apply it in our future work, as we prepare for our own Expo,” Jerinić concluded.
BIE Secretary General Dimitri Kerkentzes stated that it was important to recognise the remarkable success of the World Expo in Osaka, which, in his words, was not reflected only in the number of visitors, which exceeded 28 million, but also in the legacy it left behind.
“In a time of global challenges, 158 countries have united here, setting differences aside and showing mutual respect in their pursuit of solutions for the challenges of humanity. Such a platform allows us to listen to and respect diverse perspectives, and that is the key message to be carried forward to Serbia in 2027,” said Kerkentzes.
According to him, the fact that more than 120 countries have confirmed their participation brings great responsibility to Serbia to carry on the spirit of the Exhibitions.
“Having witnessed the commitment of the Serbian Government and the enthusiasm of all participants, I am confident that everything is on the right track. One of the most impressive things I have seen is how the Serbian Pavilion combined the ‘Designing Future Society’ and ‘Play for Humanity’ themes. This already shows the direction we are heading in and provides a strong foundation for Expo 2027 Belgrade to be as impactful as Expo 2025 Osaka,” assessed Kerkentzes.
The Specialised Exhibition Expo 2027 Belgrade will be held from 15 May to 15 August 2027, over 93 days, across an area of 25 hectares in the Surčin - Expo Zone of Belgrade. It is expected to feature the participation of more than 120 countries, over 8,000 events, and attract more than 4 million visitors from around the world.
