First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Siniša Mali unveiled the architectural model of Expo 2027 Belgrade, calling it the greatest development opportunity in the history of Serbia — a once-in-a-generation chance that the country must fully embrace.
Alongside the director of the Expo company, Dušan Borovčanin, Mali presented the future layout and design of the buildings currently under construction for the upcoming international exhibition, which will be the first of its kind to take place in the Western Balkans. Mali assured that all construction will be completed on time, emphasizing the significance of this event.
“This is the most important event in modern Serbian history and a development opportunity we cannot afford to miss,” Mali stated during the presentation at the Expo company premises.
He recalled that on June 21, 2023, Serbia secured a major victory by winning the bid to host Expo 2027, surpassing strong competitors such as the United States, Spain, Argentina, and Thailand. At that time, 81 countries expressed their confidence in Serbia’s ability to organize the event, which Mali described as a huge achievement and validation of Serbia’s political direction under President Aleksandar Vučić.
Mali noted that since that moment, progress has been continuous and visible, with construction now well underway at the designated Expo site. He highlighted the scale of the project, saying that thousands of workers are currently engaged in building the infrastructure needed to host the exhibition. He described the effort as a great responsibility but also a profound honor for everyone involved.
“We invested significant time and energy to win the right to host this event, and now we must fulfill our promise by delivering a successful Expo,” he said.
He encouraged companies from across the country and abroad to become part of the project, noting that participation would serve as a valuable reference and a global platform for showcasing their products, innovations, and ideas. Mali also extended an invitation to young people, highlighting that more than 20,000 volunteers will be needed to support the event.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for young people to gain experience, meet people from around the world, and proudly represent their country. There will also be special calls from the Science Fund and Innovation Fund aimed at encouraging researchers and inventors to showcase their projects at the Expo,” Mali said.
Looking beyond the event itself, he emphasized the long-term impact Expo 2027 will have on Serbia’s infrastructure and economy. With investments in highways, high-speed railways, hospitals, schools, energy, and cultural institutions, he believes Serbia will undergo a significant transformation and be well-positioned for accelerated growth and development beginning in 2028.
He expressed gratitude to President Aleksandar Vučić, as well as officials including Miloš Vučević and Ana Brnabić, for their roles in securing and developing the Expo project.
“This is the most complex undertaking in our country’s history, but I’m confident we will succeed. That’s why I’m calling on young people and anyone who sees an opportunity in this project to join us,” Mali said.
He concluded by emphasizing the desire of Serbian citizens for progress and development, adding that Expo 2027 will serve as a catalyst for foreign investment, job creation, and increased public revenues, ultimately enabling further increases in salaries, pensions, and the minimum wage.
“We want to build and move forward. We do not want stagnation. This event will show the world a new Serbia — strong, stable, and successful. I invite all countries that have not yet confirmed their participation to come to Belgrade. We will be excellent hosts, and they will witness a transformed Serbia ready for the future,” said Mali.
