Page 581 - MOET ENGLISH PR REPORT - JUNE 2025

6/16/25, 5:15 PM H.E. Bin Touq holds high-level meetings in Cyprus and Greece to strengthen economic partnerships and expand tourism collaboration
During the discussions, H.E. Bin Touq elaborated on the UAE’s efforts to accelerate the growth and diversification of the national
economy, increase non‑oil sector contributions to GDP, and accelerate the transition to an innovative, knowledge‑based
economic model. H.E. also highlighted the national goals of the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision and their role in reinforcing the UAE’s
position as a global hub for business, investment, and the new economy by next decade.

H.E. Bin Touq’s meeting with H.E. Georgios Papanastasiou, Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry of Cyprus, explored the
expansion of economic partnership between the UAE and Cyprus and the creation of new pathways for business communities in
both countries to establish strategic partnerships. H.E. noted that the longstanding relations between the two countries are built
on mutual understanding and fruitful cooperation, marked by continuous development across all strategic sectors, particularly
economic and investment ones.

The meeting explored opportunities to expand support mechanisms for UAE companies operating in Cyprus, facilitating their
growth in the market. It also emphasized the potential for Cypriot exporters to leverage the UAE’s strategic position as a global
business and investment hub. Furthermore, the UAE’s extensive network of regional and international economic partnerships
and trade agreements offers significant advantages for export and import activities, creating mutually beneficial opportunities for
both nations.

The Minister of Economy also met with H.E. Dr. Konstantinos Kombos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus, to explore avenues
for deepening bilateral economic cooperation in key areas of mutual interest. H.E. Bin Touq reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to
fostering stronger economic ties with Cyprus, particularly in future-oriented sectors such as energy, renewable energy, and
industry. Both sides emphasized the potential for collaboration in sustainable economic projects and underscored the value of
knowledge exchange and best practices to drive mutual growth.

During a separate meeting with H.E. Kostas Koumis, Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Cyprus, H.E. Bin Touq elaborated on
the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, outlining its comprehensive framework to enhance the country’s appeal as a premier
destination for international travelers and investors alike. The strategy aims to position the UAE as the world’s leading tourism
hub by 2031, driving growth across tourism, hospitality, and related investment sectors. H.E. also highlighted how the initiative
will reinforce the UAE’s status as a global frontrunner in tourism innovation and destination development.

In addition, the two ministers discussed potential joint tourism initiatives in both markets and the broader Eastern Mediterranean
region. Emphasis was placed on launching innovative programs in sustainable and green tourism to further stimulate bilateral
tourism exchange.

Finally, H.E. Bin Touq’s meeting with H.E. Olga Kefalogianni, Greek Minister of Tourism, discussed the strengthening of bilateral
tourism cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussions focused on three key areas: sharing expertise in smart tourism
infrastructure, promoting sustainable environmental practices, and developing joint programs to increase tourism exchanges
between both countries. H.E. Bin Touq highlighted the meeting's significance as a key milestone in advancing UAE-Greek
tourism relations, building further on the two countries' growing economic partnership.

Tourism collaboration between the UAE and Greece continues to witness significant growth, as reflected in the latest visitor
statistics. In 2024, the UAE welcomed 20,452 Greek visitors, marking a 25 per cent increase compared to 16,366 visitors in
2023. This positive momentum is further reinforced by strong air connectivity, with 33 weekly flights currently operating between
the two countries via their respective national carriers.

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