ATHENS, Greece / RankWire.AI / – In Athens on October 22, the United Arab Emirates announced plans for an additional €15 billion investment in Greece, as part of a joint venture aimed at strengthening bilateral economic ties. The statement was made during Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi,’s official visit to Greece’s capital. This new pledge complements a prior €4 billion initiative launched in May 2022, with a focus on deepening strategic and economic connections.
The Abu Dhabi Media Office highlighted that this expansion aims to enhance collaboration across sectors deemed vital for both nations’ growth and development. The initial project provided a framework for joint ventures in areas of shared interest, resulting in notable transactions in the energy and healthcare sectors. Officials have indicated that these achievements demonstrate the partnership’s potential to translate economic prospects into concrete investments. The added €15 billion funds will extend and reinforce that existing structure.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Prime Minister’s Office in Athens. Their discussions focused on fostering cooperation in energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and cutting-edge technologies. They also examined regional and global developments, emphasizing the importance of bolstering security, peace, and stability in the region. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis welcomed the Crown Prince upon his arrival at Athens International Airport. The visit underscores the ongoing growth of bilateral relations.
Strategic Forum Yields Over €12.75 Billion in Agreements
Coinciding with Sheikh Khaled’s visit was the UAE-Greece Strategic Forum held in Athens, where several agreements and commercial partnerships exceeding €12.75 billion were signed by entities from both countries. These deals span digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, manufacturing, logistics, ports, healthcare, life sciences, and food security. It’s important to note that 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 remarked that the signed agreements and the new investment plan reflect a rising confidence between the two nations. He emphasized that transforming this momentum into tangible projects is the current priority. Al Zeyoudi described the UAE as a hub for trade, investment, and connectivity, and called Greece a gateway to Europe. Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis was also present at the forum.
Greece Recognized as a Strategic Gateway to European Markets
The UAE’s statement underscores its confidence in Greece’s economic and investment capabilities, citing the country’s strategic position and its role as a link between European markets and regional and international ones. The expanded initiative aims to bolster cooperation between investment institutions and companies from both nations, while also encouraging innovation and knowledge exchange. The program is designed to open new avenues for investment opportunities.
This announcement is part of a broader UAE strategy to establish enduring investment collaborations across Europe. In September, the UAE unveiled a €40 billion investment package for Germany spanning multiple sectors. The UAE has also increased discussions with other European countries such as Italy. Officials indicate that Greece’s initiative lays the groundwork for a new phase of collaboration that extends beyond mere financial commitments.