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Cyprus, which drew broad participation from ministers, government officials, business leaders, investors,
entrepreneurs, and decision-makers from the UAE, Lebanon, Cyprus, and across Europe. The meetings

were also attended by H.E. Mohammad Alhawi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Investment; H.E.
Mohammad Saif Al Shehhi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Cyprus; and H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al

Nowais, Secretary-General Elect of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term.
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

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