High-Level Meetings at the Belgrade Tourism Fair: Antonis Leivadiotis at the Center of Key Developments

The Belgrade Tourism Fair in Serbia once again proved why it is considered one of the most important tourism events in Southeast Europe. This year’s edition gathered national tourism organizations, government representatives, regional tourism boards, and international stakeholders, creating a powerful environment for dialogue, cooperation, and destination development. Among the prominent figures present was Antonis Leivadiotis, who held a series of high-level meetings that highlighted the strategic importance of the event.

One of the most significant meetings took place with Marija Labović, CEO of the National Tourism Organization of Serbia. The discussion focused on Serbia’s tourism growth, its expanding international recognition, and the country’s diversified tourism portfolio. Serbia continues to strengthen its position through city tourism in Belgrade and Novi Sad, mountain destinations such as Zlatibor and Kopaonik, wellness centers like Vrnjačka Banja and Sokobanja, as well as cultural tourism built around monasteries, festivals, gastronomy, and river experiences along the Danube. The meeting emphasized Serbia’s identity as a destination that successfully combines urban energy, natural beauty, and cultural heritage within one accessible travel experience.

Another important meeting was held with Husein Memić, Minister of Tourism and Youth of Serbia. The conversation highlighted the government’s strategic commitment to tourism development, infrastructure improvements, and strengthening Serbia’s competitiveness in European and global markets. Special attention was given to youth tourism, event tourism, and the country’s ability to host international exhibitions, conferences, and large-scale cultural events. Serbia’s tourism trajectory reflects confidence, structured planning, and a clear ambition to elevate its position as a leading destination in the region.

Within the framework of the exhibition, an important meeting also took place with Kostas Koumis, Deputy Minister of Tourism of Cyprus. Cyprus’ presence at Sajam Turisma added a broader regional dimension to the discussions, focusing on strengthening the connectivity between the markets of Serbia, Greece, and Cyprus. The potential to increase tourism flows, exchange expertise, and develop joint initiatives that could reinforce the position of the three countries on the European tourism map was thoroughly examined.

Particularly significant was the meeting with the Tourist Organization of Sokobanja and its director, Ljubinko Milenković. Sokobanja continues to develop into one of Serbia’s most important wellness and nature destinations. Discussions focused on its thermal waters, natural environment, mountain landscapes, and the development of alternative forms of tourism such as hiking and eco-tourism. The region represents a characteristic example of balance between development and the preservation of authenticity.

These four meetings confirmed that Sajam Turisma in Belgrade is not simply a tourism exhibition, but a central institution shaping tourism strategy across the wider region. Antonis Leivadiotis’ participation highlighted the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and shared vision in building a sustainable and competitive future for tourism in Southeast Europe.