1. Serbia’s Regional Invitation 

Addressing delegates, Igor Kovačević, Executive Director of EXPO 2027 Belgrade, emphasised the key role of Slovak business and travel professionals in strengthening regional B2B engagement.

“Slovakia was the first country to sign the Participation Contract for EXPO 2027 Belgrade, reflecting the deep and enduring ties between our business communities,” said Igor Kovačević. “We are now extending Serbia’s invitation to Slovak travel professionals to build early itineraries and experience Serbia firsthand – from our cultural and historical landmarks to our vibrant regions, cuisine and hospitality.”

Slovakia’s Commissioner General for EXPO 2027 Belgrade, Lukáš Parízek, outlined preparations for Slovakia’s national presence and pavilion, emphasising the practical trade benefits for Slovak delegates.

“EXPO 2027 is an immediate opportunity for Slovak companies and travel operators to establish direct ties with Serbia, and other 140+ countries that participate, hence strengthening Slovakia’s position on a global scale”, said Lukáš Parízek.

Matej Fekete, Director General of SLOVAKIA TRAVEL, said: “EXPO 2027 Belgrade is much more than a 93-day international event. From a tourism perspective, it is a global platform where destinations can build awareness, create partnerships, and inspire future travel. For SLOVAKIA TRAVEL, our presence in Belgrade is an opportunity to introduce Slovakia to international audiences, strengthen cooperation with tourism partners and convert the visibility generated by EXPO into long-term interest in our destination. At the same time, initiatives such as Visit Serbia demonstrate how tourism can connect neighbouring countries and create opportunities that continue well beyond the Expo itself.”

2. Building on Growing Economic Ties  

The launch event in Bratislava highlighted the strong economic relationship between Serbia and Slovakia. According to the Slovak Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, bilateral trade reached approximately EUR 1.3 billion in 2025, an increase of 15 percent year-on-year. Serbia is Slovakia’s most important trading partner in the Western Balkans.

Slovakia’s preparations for EXPO 2027 include a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Council of Slovak Exporters and the Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO), creating new opportunities for Slovak companies in the Serbian market and beyond.

EXPO 2027 will build on these existing economic ties through a broad business programme encompassing bilateral events, delegation visits and business meetings. A dedicated digital B2B platform will provide an additional mechanism for connecting companies and facilitating business cooperation before and during the Expo.

A central objective of the Visit Serbia campaign is to encourage Slovak travel professionals to showcase Serbia beyond the capital. EXPO 2027 Belgrade offers visitors an opportunity to explore more of the country and extend their stays to discover its diverse tourism offering, from historic and cultural sites and vibrant cities to mountains, spas, cuisine and hospitality.

The Bratislava event forms part of a wider international tour across major European markets. Further roadshow events are planned throughout the coming months to expand destination marketing partnerships, package development and joint commercial ventures leading up to May 2027.

About EXPO 2027 Belgrade 

EXPO 2027 Belgrade is a Specialised Exhibition taking place in Belgrade, Serbia, from 15 May to 15 August 2027 under the theme “Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for All.” Centred on human connection, culture and sport, the  93-day international event is expected to attract millions of visitors.

More detailed information about Expo 2027 Belgrade can be found at the following LINK.