BIE visit to Belgrade highlights strengthened cooperation and advances in Expo 2027 preparations

This week, the Secretary General of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), Dimitri S. Kerkentzes, travelled to Belgrade on a technical visit centered around international collaboration and the advancement of Specialised Expo 2027 Belgrade. The visit notably marked the signature of a cooperation agreement between the Organisers of Expo 2027 Belgrade and Expo 2030 Riyadh, underscoring the BIE's commitment to fostering knowledge-sharing and closer ties between Expo hosts.

The agreement establishes a formal partnership framework between the two Expos, aiming to strengthen continuity between Expos and support the delivery of both events. Under the agreement, teams from Expo 2027 Belgrade will share key learnings with their counterparts in Saudi Arabia, ensuring that the two Expos benefit from shared experiences and best practices.

On the occasion of the signature, the Secretary General of the BIE, Dimitri S. Kerkentzes stated: "The BIE warmly welcomes this cooperation between Serbia and Saudi Arabia. It is a demonstration of the spirit of collaboration that underpins Expos and the commitment of host countries to support one another in delivering successful and memorable events. As preparations for Expo 2027 Belgrade advance and as Expo 2030 Riyadh scales up its operations, this exchange of experience will help strengthen both projects and contribute to the continued evolution of Expos as drivers of innovation, learning and international cooperation."

The visit also provided an opportunity to evaluate preparations for Expo 2027 Belgrade, following the progress report delivered at the 178th General Assembly of the BIE on 16 June. Notably, the BIE Secretary General met with Serbia's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Sinisa Mali, who reaffirmed the country's readiness to host over 130 international participants and welcome the world. The delegation toured the construction site, where major features - including the "Power of Play" theme pavilion, dedicated to the Expo's theme "Play for Humanity - Sport and Music for All" - are rapidly taking shape. International pavilions are set to be handed over to participating countries in less than six months.

Serbia was elected as the host of Specialised Expo 2027 during the 172nd General Assembly of the BIE in June 2023. Taking place on a 25-hectare site in Surcin, Expo 2027 Belgrade is set to welcome over 130 countries between 15 May and 15 August 2027.

Saudi Arabia was elected as the host of World Expo 2030 during the 173rd General Assembly of the BIE in November 2023. Organised under the theme "Foresight for Tomorrow", Expo 2030 Riyadh aims to welcome over 200 countries and international organisations between 1 October 2030 and 31 March 2031.