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increased collaboration in digitisation, advanced technologies, AI and health-tech.

In 2023, bilateral trade between the UAE and Estonia increased by 76.2 per cent,
reaching a total value of $176.3 million compared to $100.1 million in 2022.

The meeting between Al Zeyoudi and Riisalo provided an opportunity to discuss how to
build on this momentum and reaffirm both nations’ commitment to stronger, deeper
economic ties and to open, rules-based trade. Both parties expressed their satisfaction
with the bilateral trade volumes and pledged to explore new avenues for collaboration to
capitalise on the growing interest in each other’s markets.

Key areas of discussion included exploring opportunities for diversification of trade
products and sectors, enhancing trade facilitation measures, and fostering closer
cooperation, not only in advanced technology but also food security and sustainable
development.

Al Zeyoudi stated, “Estonia is an EU country with significant potential for the UAE, with
an economy projected to return to robust growth in the coming years. This is reflected in
increasing bilateral trade flows in 2023, and we see many mutually beneficial
opportunities to expand on these numbers and establish wider collaboration in areas
such as AI, digital healthcare, and food security. The UAE is committed to providing a
conducive business environment to facilitate trade opportunities for Estonian

businesses seeking to leverage the UAE’s connectivity and logistics infrastructure to
expand to markets in the Arab world, Asia, and Africa. We believe we can support each
other’s economic ambitions in the years ahead.”

Riisalo expressed his appreciation for the UAE's efforts in promoting bilateral trade and
welcomed the opportunity to deepen cooperation between the two nations. He
emphasised Estonia's strengths in areas such as digital innovation, e-commerce, and
clean technology, which present promising avenues for collaboration with the UAE.

The meeting concluded with both parties expressing optimism about the future of
bilateral trade relations and agreeing to work closely together to unlock new
opportunities for economic growth and prosperity.

Al Zeyoudi and Riisalo reiterated their commitment to fostering a strong and enduring
partnership that benefits businesses and citizens of both nations.

https://en.aletihad.ae/news/business/4481978/thani-al-zeyoudi-holds-talks-with-estonia-s-
minister-of-econ