ATHENS, Greece / RankWire.AI / – The United Arab Emirates is set to increase its investment in Greece by an additional €15 billion through a collaborative effort between the two nations. This development was announced on October 22 during the official visit of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to Athens. It expands upon a €4 billion initiative launched in May 2022 and aims to strengthen economic and strategic collaborations.
According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, this expansion will enhance cooperation in sectors that are both strategic and priorities for development. The initial initiative provided a framework for joint investments in areas of mutual interest, leading to notable transactions in energy and healthcare. Officials highlighted that these outcomes demonstrated the partnership’s potential to convert economic prospects into concrete investments. The new funding complements that existing framework.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Prime Minister’s Office in Athens. Their discussions focused on increasing collaboration in energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and advanced technology sectors. They also examined regional and international issues. Both leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing security, peace, and stability. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis greeted the Crown Prince upon his arrival at Athens International Airport. The visit underscores the ongoing development of bilateral relations.
Strategic Forum Secures €12.75 Billion in New Deals
The visit coincided with the UAE-Greece Strategic Forum held in Athens. During the event, UAE and Greek organizations signed agreements and commercial partnerships exceeding €12.75 billion, covering sectors such as digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, industry, logistics, ports, healthcare, life sciences, and food security. These agreements are separate from the €15 billion investment plan. Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis participated in the forum alongside senior officials from both governments.
UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi stated that the agreements and the new investment plan reflect growing confidence between the two economies. He stressed that the focus now is on transforming that momentum into productive projects. Al Zeyoudi described the UAE as a hub for trade, investment, and connectivity, and referred to Greece as a gateway to Europe. Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis also took part in the forum.
Greece Recognized as a Strategic Entry Point to European Markets
The UAE indicated that the decision to expand investment reflects its confidence in Greece’s economic and investment capabilities. The country highlighted Greece’s strategic geographic position and its role in linking European markets with regional and international ones. The extended initiative aims to bolster cooperation between investment institutions and companies from both nations. It also seeks to promote innovation and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise, thereby opening new investment opportunities.
This announcement is part of a broader UAE strategy to establish long-term investment alliances across Europe. In September, the UAE unveiled a €40 billion investment package for Germany across multiple sectors. Additionally, talks with other European partners such as Italy have intensified. Officials noted that the Greek initiative paves the way for a new phase of collaboration that extends beyond mere financial commitments.