The Republic of Azerbaijan, the largest and most developed country in the South Caucasus region, has officially confirmed its participation in the Expo 2027 Belgrade, which will take place from May 15 to August 15, 2027, with the theme "Play for Humanity: Sports and Music for All".

This Eurasian country, known for its miraculous nature and rich cultural heritage, first appeared at the Expo 2000 Hanover, after gaining independence in 1991. Since becoming a member of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in 2008, Azerbaijan has actively participated in several World Expos, including Shanghai, Milan, Dubai, and the upcoming Osaka 2025. Azerbaijan has also maintained a strong presence in Specialized and Horticultural Expos, presenting distinctive national pavilions in Antalya, Astana, Beijing, and Doha.

One of the key highlights of Azerbaijan’s Expo journey was its award-winning pavilion “Treasure of Biodiversity” at Expo 2015 in Milan. At Expo 2017 in Astana, the country presented “Land of Fire: Energy from Past to Future”, which received a Silver Medal in the Eastern Design category and was ranked among the top five most visited international pavilions. At Expo 2019 in Beijing, Azerbaijan’s national pavilion earned a Special Award, securing second place for its outstanding design and composition.

Most recently, at Expo 2020 in Dubai, Azerbaijan’s pavilion received global recognition, winning Best Medium-Sized Pavilion and Best Communicating Pavilion in a competition organized by „Exhibitor“ magazine, which has evaluated World Expos for over 30 years. It was also celebrated by visitors and volunteers as one of the most beautiful and most visited pavilions of the entire event.

Cultural and Sporting Richness

Azerbaijan is a land where ancient traditions and modern achievements harmoniously coexist. With a history steeped in folklore, the country is renowned for its vibrant folk dances and games that reflect the spirit, resilience, and unity of its people. Among the most cherished traditional dances are Nalbaki, a rhythmic display performed with small plates; Yalli, a powerful collective dance symbolizing solidarity; Terekeme, which captures the nomadic spirit of the Terekeme people; Uzundara, a graceful piece often showcased at celebrations; and Qaval, which embodies the elegance and vitality of Azerbaijani folklore.

Traditional games also hold a special place in Azerbaijan’s heritage. Zorkhana, an ancient martial art rooted in physical endurance and discipline, and Chovgan, a medieval polo-like sport recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, continue to be celebrated today as symbols of national identity.

Azerbaijan's musical legacy is equally profound. The sounds of the tar, kamancha, saz, qaval, nagara, zurna, and balaban have echoed through the centuries, forming the backbone of genres ranging from classical Mugham and Ashiq music to opera and contemporary jazz. A defining moment in Azerbaijani music history was the premiere of Leyli and Majnun in 1908 by Uzeyir Hajibeyov, marking the creation of the first opera in the Muslim world.

Beyond culture, Azerbaijan has established itself as a prominent sporting nation. The country excels in disciplines such as freestyle wrestling, judo, and chess, with Azerbaijani athletes and grandmasters earning global acclaim. Azerbaijan has also proudly hosted numerous international sporting events, including the 2019 UEFA Europa League Final, UEFA Euro 2020, and the prestigious Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, further reinforcing its status as a dynamic and global-facing nation.

Relations with Serbia

Serbia and Azerbaijan established diplomatic relations in 1997, and their traditionally friendly nature was further enhanced by signing the Declaration on Friendly Relations and Strategic Partnership in 2013, and the Joint Action Plan on Strategic Partnership in 2018.

Expo 2027 Belgrade presents another opportunity to further strengthen this partnership and cooperation.

“We are very excited that Azerbaijan, a beautiful country on the border of Europe and Asia, will be our guest at Expo 2027 Belgrade. They will undoubtedly make a notable appearance at the Expo. We look forward to discovering a piece of their rich and colorful culture through play and music, which traditionally attracts a large number of visitors at International Exhibitions”, said Dušan Borovčanin, CEO of Expo 2027 LLC, Belgrade.

At the first International Exhibition in the Western Balkans in Belgrade, more than 120 countries, international organizations, and companies will participate. It is expected that Serbia’s capital will attract over four million visitors during the 93 days of Expo 2027 Belgrade.