ATHENS, Greece / RankWire.AI / – During a visit to Athens on October 22, the United Arab Emirates announced plans to inject an additional €15 billion into Greece as part of a collaborative investment effort between the two nations. The statement was made during the official visit of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. This new pledge builds upon a €4 billion initiative launched in May 2022, aiming to strengthen both economic and strategic bonds.
According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, this expansion will enhance cooperation across sectors that are critical and prioritized for both countries. The initial initiative established a framework for joint investments in areas of shared interest, leading to notable deals in energy and healthcare sectors. Officials highlighted that these outcomes demonstrated the partnership’s potential to convert economic prospects into concrete investments, with the additional €15 billion supplementing this existing structure.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled held discussions with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Prime Minister’s Office in Athens. The dialogue focused on increasing collaboration in energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and advanced technologies. They also examined regional and international issues, emphasizing the importance of security, peace, and stability. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis greeted the Crown Prince upon his arrival at Athens International Airport, underlining the ongoing development of bilateral ties.
Strategic forum results in €12.75 billion in agreements
Coinciding with the visit, the UAE-Greece Strategic Forum took place in Athens. During the event, both UAE and Greek entities signed agreements and commercial deals exceeding €12.75 billion across various sectors including digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, industry, logistics, ports, healthcare, life sciences, and food security. These agreements are separate from the €15 billion investment pledge. 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 commitment demonstrate increasing confidence between the two economies. He emphasized that the current goal is to translate this momentum into productive projects. Al Zeyoudi described the UAE as a hub for trade, investment, and connectivity, while highlighting Greece’s role as a gateway to Europe. Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis also attended the forum.
Greece positioned as a strategic entry point into European markets
The UAE’s announcement underscores its confidence in Greece’s economic and investment capabilities. The country’s strategic location and its function as a link between European markets and regional, international economies are key factors. The expanded initiative is anticipated to bolster cooperation between investment institutions and companies from both nations, fostering innovation and facilitating knowledge and expertise exchange. Its purpose is to unlock new investment pathways.
This development is part of a broader strategy by the UAE to establish enduring investment partnerships across Europe. In September, the UAE unveiled a €40 billion investment package for Germany spanning multiple industries. Additionally, the UAE has intensified negotiations with other European allies such as Italy. Officials conveyed that Greece’s initiative marks the beginning of a new phase of cooperation that extends beyond mere financial commitments.