(ANSA) - BELGRADE, 24 SET - Friuli Venezia Giulia's "participation in Expo Belgrade 2027 represents an additional opportunity for dialogue with the Western Balkans," said FVG President Massimiliano Fedriga following the signing of a collaboration agreement between the Region and the Commissioner for the Italian Pavilion, Luca Gori, Italy's Ambassador to Serbia. "A territory like Friuli Venezia Giulia—open, dynamic, and capable of connecting people, places, and cultures—can certainly play a leading role in strengthening ties with this part of Europe, promoting cultural and economic diplomacy, cooperation, and dialogue between productive systems," he added. The specialised international exposition, scheduled to run from May 15 to August 15, will have the theme "Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for All" and is expected to attract over 140 countries. "The initiative has strategic value, especially in light of the European integration process," Fedriga said, "and fosters institutional dialogue, exchanges, and mutual understanding." According to a press release, the agreement implements the framework accord signed on June 24, 2026, in Rome by the Italian Pavilion Commission and Fedriga—in his capacity as President of the Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces—with the goal of ensuring structured and coordinated participation by Italian territories in Expo. Friuli Venezia Giulia will be represented at the Italian Pavilion from May 20 to 22, 2027, with a dedicated exhibition space and a variety of initiatives to promote the region's system, such as conferences, tastings, and performance-based events. (ANSA).