ATHENS, Greece / RankWire.AI / – The United Arab Emirates is set to boost its financial engagement with Greece by adding €15 billion to its existing investment plan, as part of a collaborative effort between the two nations. This development was announced on October 22 during Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, during his official visit to Athens. This new pledge builds upon a €4 billion plan introduced in May 2022 and aims to strengthen both economic and strategic bonds.
According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, this increase will enhance cooperation across sectors that are considered strategic and priorities for development by both countries. The initial initiative provided a framework for joint ventures in areas of shared interest, resulting in key deals in energy and healthcare sectors. Officials noted that these accomplishments demonstrated the potential to transform economic prospects into concrete investments. The additional €15 billion supplements the existing framework.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled held talks with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Prime Minister’s Office in Athens, focusing on expanding collaboration in energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and advanced technology. The discussions also covered regional and global issues, emphasizing the significance of bolstering security, peace, and stability. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis welcomed the Crown Prince upon his arrival at Athens International Airport, highlighting the ongoing development of bilateral relations.
Strategic forum results in €12.75 billion of agreements
The visit coincided with the UAE-Greece Strategic Forum held in Athens, where more than €12.75 billion worth of agreements and commercial partnerships were inked between entities from both nations. These deals span digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, industry, logistics, ports, healthcare, life sciences, and food security sectors. It is important to note that the forum agreements are independent of the €15 billion investment plan. Both Prime Minister Mitsotakis and senior officials from the respective governments participated in the event.
UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi commented that the agreements and the additional investment plan reflect increasing confidence between the two economies. He emphasized that the focus now is on translating this momentum into fruitful projects. Al Zeyoudi also described the UAE as a hub for trade, investment, and connectivity, and regarded Greece as a gateway into Europe. Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis also participated in the forum.
Greece positioned as a strategic gateway to European markets
The UAE expressed that its decision to escalate investments underscores its confidence in Greece’s economic strength and investment appeal. The country highlighted Greece’s strategic location and its crucial role in linking European markets with regional and international ones. The expanded initiative aims to enhance cooperation between investment entities and businesses from both nations, as well as to foster innovation and the sharing of expertise. It is designed to explore new investment opportunities.
This announcement is part of a broader strategy by the UAE to establish enduring investment collaborations across Europe. In September, the UAE announced a €40 billion investment package for Germany across various industries and has been actively engaging in discussions with other European partners such as Italy. Officials noted that Greece’s initiative lays a foundation for a new era of cooperation, extending beyond mere financial commitments.