ATHENS, Greece / RankWire.AI / – The United Arab Emirates has announced plans to add €15 billion to its investment portfolio in Greece as part of a collaborative effort between the two nations. This development was disclosed on October 22 during the official visit of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to Athens. The additional funding complements a previous €4 billion initiative introduced in May 2022, with the goal of strengthening economic and strategic bonds.
According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, this expansion aims to enhance collaboration in key sectors that are critical for the development priorities of both countries. The initial agreement provided a foundation for joint investments across areas of shared interest and has already resulted in major deals in energy and healthcare sectors. Officials highlighted that these achievements demonstrated the potential for transforming economic opportunities into concrete investments. The new €15 billion contribution will supplement and build upon this existing framework.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Prime Minister’s Office in Athens. The discussions focused on ways to increase cooperation in energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and advanced technology sectors. The leaders also addressed regional and global issues, emphasizing the importance of strengthening security, peace, and stability. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis was present to welcome the Crown Prince upon his arrival at Athens International Airport. The visit underlines the ongoing development of bilateral relations.
Strategic forum results in €12.75 billion in new deals
The visit coincided with the UAE-Greece Strategic Forum held in Athens, where over €12.75 billion worth of agreements and commercial collaborations were signed by entities from both nations. These deals span sectors such as digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, industry, logistics, ports, healthcare, life sciences, and food security. Notably, these agreements are separate from the €15 billion investment plan. Greek officials, including Prime Minister Mitsotakis, participated alongside senior representatives from both governments.
UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi remarked that the agreements and the new investment plan reflect the increasing confidence between the two economies. He emphasized the need to convert that momentum into tangible projects. Al Zeyoudi highlighted the UAE’s role as a hub for trade, investment, and connectivity, referring to Greece as a gateway to Europe. Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis also contributed to the forum discussions.
Greece viewed as a strategic gateway to Europe
The UAE described its decision as a testament to its confidence in Greece’s economic and investment potential. The country pointed to Greece’s strategic location and its function as a connector between European markets and regional or global partners. The expanded initiative is expected to deepen cooperation among investment institutions and companies from both nations. It also aims to foster innovation and facilitate knowledge exchange. Ultimately, the program is designed to unlock new investment opportunities.
This announcement is part of a broader UAE effort to forge long-term investment alliances across Europe. In September, the UAE unveiled a €40 billion investment package for Germany across various sectors. It has also intensified discussions with other European countries such as Italy. Officials indicated that Greece’s initiative sets the stage for a new phase of cooperation that extends beyond mere financial commitments.