Page 68 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (Part 1)_Neat

Press Release

Her Excellency also briefed the Italian Minister of Enterprise on the UAE's evolving SME
landscape and the national entrepreneurship ecosystem launched last November. She highlighted
its crucial role in improving startup success rates and cementing the UAE's position as a premier
entrepreneurship hub both regionally and globally.

The UAE delegation expressed its interest in convening the seventh UAE-Italy Joint Economic
Committee, which would serve as a vital platform to strengthen economic and investment ties
between the two countries and foster engagement between their business communities.

Furthermore, the UAE delegation met with H.E. Daniela Santanchè, Italy’s Minister of Tourism,
to explore ways to enhance tourism cooperation within their economic partnership framework. The
talks focused on creating new opportunities in tourism, aviation, and travel sectors, along with
developing diverse tourism and entertainment programs that encourage increased tourism
exchanges.

H.E. Bin Touq stated: "Tourism exchanges between the UAE and Italy is witnessing steady
growth, with 358,904 Italian visitors recorded in 2024, a 9 per cent increase from 2023. In addition,
there are approximately 106 weekly flights between the two countries operated by national
carriers."

Both parties emphasized the importance of joint tourism promotion initiatives to attract more
visitors to their respective markets. They highlighted the value of exchanging expertise and
policies that ensure tourism sector sustainability and economic growth.

Furthermore, the UAE delegation met with H.E. Marco Gatti, Minister of Finance of the Republic
of San Marino, to advance economic cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as tourism,
financial services, and technology. Discussions also addressed increasing investments, enhancing
collaboration on digital transformation in key sectors, and financial and tax incentives for investors
in both markets.

Finally, H.E. Bin Touq’s meeting with Jankel Hackenberg, CEO of the Ellen MacArthur
Foundation, reviewed policies and strategies related to the circular economy and explored ways to
encourage private sector participation in developing circular business models in vital sectors such
as advanced manufacturing and sustainable mobility.

-Ends-