Ana Brnabić, Speaker of the National Assembly of Serbia, met with US Special Envoy Paolo Zampoli in Belgrade, focusing on preparations for EXPO 2027, which will take place in Serbia’s capital next year. The discussion also touched on “Freedom 250”, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, and the American House, a US cultural and business representation at international events.
Zampoli, a longtime associate of former US President Donald Trump, gained attention in the 1990s for introducing Trump to Melania Trump in New York. He was appointed US Special Representative for Global Partnerships in March 2025 and has previously maintained close ties with Serbian authorities, including congratulating the ruling SNS party on past election victories and meeting prominent Serbian officials such as Ivica Dačić and Ana Brnabić during her tenure as Prime Minister.
While Zampoli publicly shared the meeting on his official Instagram account, no official announcement was made by the Serbian government or media outlets regarding the session. Following Belgrade, he is scheduled to travel to Banja Luka, where he will meet with the Prime Minister of Republika Srpska, Savo Minić.
Zampoli’s background includes work as a businessman, diplomat, lobbyist, modeling agent, and producer, as well as holding the position of Ambassador of Dominica to the UN. He also co-founded organizations such as the World AI Organization (WAIO) and the World Animal Protection Organization (WATO).
Although Zampoli has been mentioned in public discourse surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, including FBI documents referencing a modeling agency he co-operated with Epstein on, there is no evidence of any legal wrongdoing, and reports indicate these connections reflect acquaintance rather than criminal activity.
The meeting underscores continuing US-Serbia diplomatic engagement ahead of major international events and highlights Zampoli’s role in US global outreach initiatives.
