Page 593 - MOET ENGLISH PR REPORT - JUNE 2025

6/16/25, 5:16 PM H.E. Bin Touq holds high-level meetings in Cyprus and Greece to strengthen economic partnerships and expand tourism collaborati…
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.

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