The Secretary General of the International Bureau of Exhibitions, Dimitrije Kerkentzes, spoke with NIN about the main challenges and expectations surrounding EXPO 2027, highlighting that these challenges are common across various exhibitions, although each has its unique characteristics. He emphasized that the process of organizing the event involves making the space accessible to all visitors, ensuring adequate infrastructure like metro systems and roads, and ensuring that participating countries see the value in investing in the event.
He pointed out that EXPO 2027 is not only an investment for Serbia but also for the entire world, as each participating country will contribute to the event. The challenge lies in convincing countries to invest, especially in tough economic conditions. However, with a large number of countries already confirmed to participate in the exhibition, Serbia’s focus must be on logistics, especially since a large influx of people will be visiting. Kerkentzes stressed the importance of preparing the airports and cities for this influx, as the investments made will eventually be returned through tourism, indirect taxes, and the expenditures of visitors.
“It’s important to take advantage of the opportunity while the world is in Serbia to showcase what the country offers to the world,” Kerkentzes explained.
Regarding the Serbian pavilion at the World Exhibition in Osaka, Kerkentzes shared his surprise and admiration for how Serbia’s pavilion utilized the theme “Creating the Future Society.” He noted that the pavilion not only depicted Serbia’s current position but also conveyed a forward-looking vision, which would play an essential role in EXPO 2027. He mentioned that the Serbian exhibition tells a compelling story that would capture the attention of global visitors and inspire the world. Kerkentzes praised Serbia’s approach to connecting the pavilion with the broader global theme, calling it a unique presentation.
“We are living in a very challenging time geopolitically and economically, but the World Exhibition in Osaka represents a positive beacon for humanity. It brings the world together to seek solutions for a better future,” Kerkentzes said.
He stressed that EXPO is about collaboration, and the answers sought at the exhibition cannot be achieved alone but must involve cooperation between nations. As visitors experience the event over the next six months, the themes discussed will undoubtedly be even more pronounced at EXPO 2027 in Belgrade.
Kerkentzes highlighted Japan’s long-standing tradition of hosting successful EXPO exhibitions, having previously held five, and emphasized the significance of Serbia hosting this event in a region that has never done so before. He believes that this will only strengthen the event’s global importance.
The discussion also touched on the difference between specialized and World Exhibitions, where Kerkentzes clarified that while the terms might be confusing, both types of exhibitions hold equal value. He confidently expressed his belief that Serbia will be highly successful in hosting EXPO 2027, with over 100 countries expected to participate. He noted that the only difference is the duration of the events—EXPO 2027 Belgrade will last for three months, as opposed to the six months of the Osaka World Expo.
Kerkentzes concluded by emphasizing that the importance of an EXPO is not determined by its duration or the size of the host country. The value lies in the countries involved, the messages shared, and the opportunity to bring the world together at a critical time. With countries confirming their participation in Serbia’s EXPO earlier than expected, it is clear that EXPO 2027 will be a pivotal moment on the global stage.
