ATHENS, Greece / RankWire.AI / – The United Arab Emirates has revealed plans to inject a further €15 billion into Greece, as part of a collaborative investment 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, visit to Athens. This new pledge expands upon an earlier €4 billion initiative launched in May 2022, with the goal of strengthening economic and strategic connections.
The Abu Dhabi Media Office explained that this increased investment would enhance cooperation in sectors deemed strategic and vital for both countries’ development. The original framework facilitated joint investments across fields of mutual interest, resulting in notable transactions in energy and healthcare. Officials highlighted that these successes demonstrated how the partnership could translate economic opportunities into concrete projects. The additional funds are intended to complement and reinforce this existing framework.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Prime Minister’s Office in Athens. The leaders discussed potential collaborations in energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and advanced technology, along with regional and international issues. Both parties emphasized the importance of bolstering security, peace, and stability. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis welcomed the Crown Prince upon his arrival at Athens International Airport, underscoring the ongoing growth of bilateral relations.
Strategic Forum Yields €12.75 Billion in New Agreements
The visit coincided with the UAE-Greece Strategic Forum held in Athens, where over €12.75 billion worth of agreements and business partnerships were signed between UAE and Greek organizations. These deals encompass digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, industry, logistics, ports, healthcare, life sciences, and food security sectors. The forum agreements are separate from the €15 billion investment plan. Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis attended alongside senior officials from both governments.
UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi stated that the signing of these agreements and the new investment plan reflected increasing confidence between the two economies. He emphasized the importance of transforming this momentum into practical projects, describing 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 participated in the forum.
Greece Recognized as a Strategic Entry Point to European Markets
The UAE’s decision is driven by its confidence in Greece’s economic and investment capabilities, citing the country’s strategic geographical position and its importance as a connector between European markets and regional and global economies. The expanded initiative aims to foster closer cooperation between investment entities and businesses in both countries, promoting innovation and the exchange of expertise and knowledge. It seeks to create new investment pathways and opportunities.
This announcement is part of a broader UAE strategy to forge enduring investment collaborations across Europe. In September, the UAE outlined a €40 billion investment package for Germany spanning multiple sectors. The country has also increased discussions with other European nations such as Italy. Officials conveyed that Greece’s initiative marks the beginning of a new phase of cooperation that extends beyond just financial commitments.