by EH
As Serbia prepares to host the 2027 World Expo, regional leaders from Italy’s northeastern provinces are deepening their economic and cultural ties with the Balkan nation, exploring opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth.
Fabio Scoccimarro, the Regional Councillor for Environmental Protection in Friuli Venezia Giulia, led a delegation from Italy’s Sistema Nordest, which includes representatives from Veneto and the Autonomous Province of Trento. The group met with key Serbian officials, including the Ministry of Finance, to discuss future partnerships, particularly in light of the upcoming Expo in Belgrade.
In an address following his meeting with Serbian officials, Scoccimarro emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation. “Minister Urso reaffirmed that working with Serbia is a clear priority for the Italian government,” he said. “This collaboration presents a significant opportunity for Friuli Venezia Giulia’s businesses, especially in the context of the Expo and the infrastructure projects that will transform Belgrade in the coming years.”
The delegation, which also included prominent figures like Alessandro Minon, President of the regional development agency Finest, and Edy Snaidero, head of the region’s “Wood-Furniture-Home System” cluster, discussed various ways to integrate their industries into the Expo’s vision. Scoccimarro noted that Friuli Venezia Giulia businesses, supported by regional chambers of commerce and associations, will be ready to participate in the event, with plans for a regional pavilion at the Expo.
A Focus on Infrastructure and Economic Growth
The 2027 Expo is expected to bring major infrastructure improvements to Belgrade, and Scoccimarro sees this as a crucial moment for Friuli Venezia Giulia’s businesses to engage with Serbian counterparts. “This Expo represents more than just an event; it’s an economic catalyst that will drive investments and new business opportunities for our companies,” he said.
In addition to the Expo preparations, the delegation engaged in talks about long-term economic cooperation between Italy’s northeastern regions and Serbia. These discussions are set to culminate in a bilateral summit between Italy and Serbia, scheduled for January 2025, following a formal announcement by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić.
Deep Cultural Ties
Scoccimarro also highlighted the historical and cultural connections between Friuli Venezia Giulia and Serbia. He pointed out the Serbian community in Trieste, which numbers nearly 10,000, and described how they have become an integral part of the city’s local fabric. “Serbs in Trieste have long been a vital, well-integrated community, contributing greatly to the cultural richness of our region,” he said.
The Italian delegation’s visit included a gathering at the Italian Embassy in Belgrade, aimed at strengthening ties between the business communities of both nations. Ambassador Luca Gori hosted the event, which further underscored Italy’s commitment to fostering bilateral economic relations.
Looking to the Future
As the 2027 Expo looms, both nations are focused on building a long-term relationship that goes beyond business. “This is about more than just opportunities for growth; it’s about deepening cultural and economic bonds that will shape the future of both regions,” Scoccimarro said.
With Serbia positioning itself as a key player on the global stage, Italy’s northeastern regions are aiming to leverage their longstanding connections and forge new partnerships that could benefit businesses, economies, and communities for years to come.
