Slovenia’s participation in EXPO 2027 in Belgrade is poised to enhance bilateral cooperation with Serbia, according to Saša Lavrič, the commissioner for Slovenia’s section at the event. The EXPO, scheduled to take place from May 15 to August 15, 2027, will allow Slovenia to showcase its way of life, values, and cultural heritage. Lavrič emphasized the importance of Serbia as a partner, noting the active exchange of workforce and business contacts between the two countries.

Lavrič highlighted that the theme of EXPO 2027, “Play for Humanity: Sports and Music for All,” aligns well with Slovenia’s values, which include community, movement, music, and joy. “A good community is one that connects, while sports and music joyfully unite people,” she stated. Slovenia aims to present itself as a country that embraces diversity and openness to other nationalities, aspiring to achieve more through collaborative efforts.

Although the final concept for Slovenia’s pavilion is yet to be defined, Lavrič mentioned plans to feature sports, music, dance, gastronomy, nature, and outdoor life, alongside innovations that encourage curiosity among young people. “For new innovations, we need people who love to explore and are curious, which is what we want to inspire in the younger generations,” she explained.

The public and business community in Slovenia have responded positively to the country’s participation in the EXPO. Lavrič noted that there have been no negative reactions, with many considering it crucial to be part of the event. Throughout the EXPO’s three-month duration, Slovenia expects to send business delegations to Belgrade almost every week, along with numerous private visitors. Plans include delegations from various fields, such as sports and music, and organizing concerts and other cultural events in Serbia during the EXPO.

Slovenia’s National Day at the EXPO is scheduled for June 22, 2027, with expectations of attendance by the Slovenian Prime Minister and a significant business delegation. Lavrič expressed hope that Slovenia will bring its top athletes and host concerts and cultural events in Serbia, indicating a strong Slovenian presence during the EXPO.

The participation in EXPO 2027 is seen as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Slovenia and Serbia. Lavrič mentioned that intensive meetings with Serbian officials are planned during and around the event. She concluded by highlighting the significance of hosting the EXPO in the Western Balkans, demonstrating that large and ambitious projects can be realized in the region, which might have seemed impossible a few years ago.

The agreement for Slovenia’s participation was signed in Belgrade, facilitating further operational steps for the country’s involvement. The document was signed by Jagoda Lazarević, Serbia’s Minister of Internal and Foreign Trade and commissioner for EXPO 2027, Danilo Jerinić, director of EXPO 2027 d.o.o. Belgrade, and Saša Lavrič. The EXPO aims to attract over 4 million visitors, offering a platform for cultural and economic exchanges and showcasing Serbia’s diverse offerings to the world.