Page 64 - MOE ENGLISH PR - MAY 2024

Press Release

Strengthening of economic cooperation with Malta

H.E.’s meeting with H.E. Silvio Schembri, the Maltese Minister of Economy, Institutions and
Strategic Enterprises, explored the means to develop economic cooperation frameworks and
diversify existing partnership.

The two sides agreed on intensified action to offer tailored programs and enablers needed to
accelerate the growth of startups in both markets, increase their investments, and support their
exports to access new markets. The ministers addressed the need to encourage SMEs and
entrepreneurs to invest in new economy sectors, thus enabling them to enhance their contributions
to the national GDPs of both countries.

Discussion on strengthening UAE-EU ties

H.E. met with H.E. Marco Zanni, Member of the European Parliament, to explore the strengthening
of economic and investment relations between the UAE, EU, and Italy, especially since the UAE
is the EU's largest export destination and investment partner in the Middle East and North Africa
region. The two sides addressed the importance of exploring new opportunities to deepen
cooperation in many economic sectors, including energy, renewable energy, agricultural
technology, artificial intelligence, and fintech.

Another meeting with Mr Luigi Di Maio, EU Special Representative for the Gulf region, discussed
the means to enhance coordination in developing various aspects of economic cooperation between
the UAE and EU, and exchanging views and discussions on a range of key economic files.

Cooperation with Intesa Sanpaolo in the field of circular economy

Finally, H.E.’s meeting with Carlo Messina, CEO of leading Italian banking group Intesa Sanpaolo,
discussed the strengthening of cooperation in the adoption of circular economy policies and sharing
best practices and experiences that support the UAE’s transition towards circular economy. The
Ministry of Economy had signed a strategic agreement with Intesa Sanpaolo in October 2023 in
this regard.

The second edition of Investopia Europe was held in Italy's economic capital Milan, bringing
together more than 600 participants including government leaders, CEOs, entrepreneurs, experts,
decision-makers, and representatives of numerous private sector companies and financial
institutions in the UAE, Italy, Malta, Cyprus and Portugal. The event is part of the Investopia
Dialogues series.

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