As part of an initiative aimed at strengthening transatlantic cooperation, Expo 2027 Belgrade was presented in the United States Congress as a platform for enhancing bilateral relations, fostering business partnerships, and facilitating the exchange of ideas and technologies that are shaping the future of modern society.
Speaking at the “Advancing Transatlantic Cooperation” panel discussion, held in the United States Congress, Igor Kovačević, Executive Director and Head of International Cooperation at EXPO 2027, highlighted that Expo 2027 Belgrade represented an opportunity to further connect Serbia with international partners through innovation, investment, technology, and public-private sector cooperation.
Kovačević noted that international exhibitions such as Expo had remained one of the key pillars of economic development throughout history.
“Recognising that the free exchange of knowledge, goods, and services contributes significantly to a country’s prosperity, we see Expo as an important foundation for further strengthening relations with the United States, as well as with all other official participants. We believe that cooperation, open dialogue, and connectivity are the only path towards creating new opportunities and driving society forward,” said Kovačević.
He further emphasised that Expo served as a powerful platform for countries to showcase their cultural identity, innovation, sport and music, as well as their economic potential.
“Serbia is currently experiencing its largest investment cycle, and we see Expo not merely as a standalone event, but as a lasting legacy that will create value not only for Belgrade and Serbia, but also for the wider region, as well as for all official participants and global companies that will take part,” Kovačević added.
Addressing the broader societal impact of Expo, Kovačević stressed that its primary focus was on improving the quality of life of local communities. He described Expo 2027 as a modern urban development project that would support the continued growth of Belgrade and contribute to Serbia’s long-term development.
He also reminded attendees that the United States signed its Participation Agreement for Expo 2027 only a few weeks ago and was now actively preparing its pavilion and programme for the 93-day Specialised Exhibition.
Kovačević also referred to the cooperation with the American company Archer Aviation, which would play an important role during Expo 2027, as well as to the involvement of CISCO, one of the Exhibition’s key partners.
Addressing participants at the panel, Gavin M. Wax, Chief of Staff to the Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs and United States Commissioner for Expo 2027 Belgrade at the U.S. Department of State, emphasised the importance the United States attached to strengthening bilateral relations with Serbia and noted that Expo 2027 Belgrade represented a significant opportunity in that regard.
“We view exhibitions as a powerful force for bringing people together. They connect not only individuals, but also companies and businesses, creating opportunities for prosperity. This is not an event whose impact will be limited to a specific number of days. We expect it to leave a lasting legacy both within Serbia and across the wider region, while further strengthening our future relations through business, culture and public diplomacy,” Wax said.
He also recalled the long-standing relationship between Serbia and the United States, noting that the two countries were allies in both World Wars and stood on the winning side each time, a fact that was often overlooked.
“This is enormously important for both Serbia and the United States. We are, therefore, very proud to be part of Expo and extremely excited to help ensure that the Specialised Exhibition is a tremendous success,” Wax concluded.
During the two-day visit of the Serbian delegation, Expo 2027 was presented at the Atlantic Council, at a reception on Capitol Hill, and during a panel discussion in the United States Congress.
The events in Washington were attended by numerous ambassadors and diplomats accredited to the United States, representatives of the U.S. Congress, the Department of State, members of the media, and representatives of leading American technology companies.
