Switzerland’s announcement as the first country to confirm its participation in EXPO 2027 Belgrade comes as no surprise to those familiar with the history of relations between Serbia and Switzerland. The two nations established official diplomatic ties in 1916, and their cooperation has since flourished in many areas. Switzerland is a significant bilateral donor to Serbia, and Belgraders fondly remember the iconic green trams, often referred to as “Swiss.”
A rich history of cultural and educational ties
The connection between Serbia and Switzerland in education and culture dates back to the mid-19th century, even before the establishment of official diplomatic relations. By that time, around 150 Serbian students were studying at Swiss universities. Notable figures who studied in Switzerland and later left a lasting impact on Serbia’s political, literary, scientific, and diplomatic scenes include Nikola Pašić, Jovan Dučić, Svetozar Marković, Petar Todorović and Pera Velimirović.
Another key figure in the historical relationship between the two nations is Rodolfo Archibald Reiss, a renowned Swiss forensic scientist, publicist, and university professor. Reiss is remembered for his criminological research on crimes against the Serbian population during World War I and for being a member of the Yugoslav government delegation at the Paris Peace Conference. His bond with the Serbian people led him to spend the rest of his life in Serbia, leaving behind a legacy still celebrated today. In his honor, a primary school and a street in Belgrade are named after him.
Modern-Day Cooperation and EXPO 2027
Recently, the Swiss Ambassador to Serbia, Anne Lugon-Moulin, met with Dušan Borovčanin, the director of EXPO 2027 Belgrade, to discuss Switzerland’s participation in the upcoming exhibition. Ambassador Lugon-Moulin expressed Switzerland’s pride in being the first to confirm its participation, adding that it would enhance the already strong relationship between the two nations.
Director Borovčanin highlighted Switzerland’s reputation for its stunning nature, industrious people, and long-standing friendship with Serbia. He noted that while over 120 countries are expected to participate in EXPO 2027 Belgrade, Switzerland’s interpretation of the theme “Game(s) for Humanity” would be of particular interest.
Switzerland has previously participated in seven international exhibitions over the last two decades and has confirmed its participation in EXPO 2025 in Osaka. Ambassador Lugon-Moulin remarked that Switzerland’s involvement in EXPO 2027 Belgrade would be an important addition to the existing rich and diverse relationship between the two countries, marking the beginning of a new era of harmony and friendship in the region.
