Danilo Jerinić, the newly appointed director of Expo 2027 Serbia, dismissed rumors that the event is temporary or short-lived, emphasizing that the infrastructure being built will have long-term use even after the exhibition ends.
Jerinić proudly stated that every element of Expo 2027 will be reused, making it the first Expo completely focused on legacy. He stressed that many citizens may not yet fully understand the economic and diplomatic benefits the event will bring to Serbia and the future generations.
He pointed out that Expo 2027 puts the global spotlight on the host country and boosts the entire nation’s economy, especially less developed regions. Serbia competed successfully against much larger countries like the USA, Argentina, Spain, and Thailand by offering a strong vision, determination, and a compelling theme.
The event will not only last 93 days but will leave a lasting impact on the development of Belgrade, Serbia, and the wider region. Infrastructure built for the Expo—including a new Belgrade fair complex, cultural and educational institutions, kindergartens, schools, and public spaces—will serve the community for years to come. Modular pavilions in the “Best Practices” zone will be converted into schools, sports halls, and kindergartens throughout Serbia after the event.
Jerinić also highlighted ongoing negotiations with major fairs to host global conferences and events in Serbia post-2027, leveraging the new Expo facilities.
The total projected value of Expo 2027, including supporting infrastructure like railways, new roads, an aquatic center, and a railway connection from Zemun via the airport to the Expo site, is about €1.29 billion—contrary to inflated figures circulating publicly. He emphasized that Expo is a strategic investment, not an expense, offering Serbia a platform to showcase its tourism, economy, science, and AI advancements alongside Europe’s most developed countries.
Jerinić confirmed that Expo 2027 is the largest and fastest-growing construction site in the region, adhering strictly to deadlines, quality standards, and procedures. The project is monitored not only by the Serbian government but also by the 184 member countries of the International Bureau of Exhibitions.
Preparations include constructing thematic and national pavilion structures, internal traffic networks, and technical infrastructure, aiming to hand over completed objects to participating countries by autumn 2026.
He credited his predecessor, Dušan Borovčanin, for laying the groundwork, noting all prerequisites for project implementation have been met.
Coordination with 120-130 participating countries and their contractors will soon intensify, requiring careful management to avoid delays.
While domestic political developments have complicated progress, they have not stopped it. Jerinić called on public figures and media to avoid spreading misinformation, urging citizens to seek accurate information through official channels.
He revealed that 119 countries have already confirmed participation, exceeding the initial target of 100 by the end of the year. This high level of engagement signals global anticipation for the first Expo held in the Western Balkans, expected to attract massive attendance.
