ATHENS, Greece / RankWire.AI / – The United Arab Emirates is set to inject an extra €15 billion into Greece through a collaborative investment effort between the two nations. This development was announced on October 22 during the official visit of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to Athens. The new pledge extends a previous €4 billion initiative launched in May 2022, with the goal of strengthening economic and strategic connections.
According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, the expansion will enhance cooperation across sectors that are vital for both countries’ development and strategic interests. The initial initiative provided a framework for joint investments in areas of mutual benefit and has already resulted in key transactions in energy and healthcare. Officials highlighted that these outcomes demonstrate the potential for turning economic opportunities into concrete investments. The additional €15 billion will supplement this existing framework.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Prime Minister’s Office in Athens. Their discussions focused on ways to expand collaboration in energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and advanced technology sectors. They also examined regional and global issues, emphasizing the importance of reinforcing security, peace, and stability. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis welcomed the Crown Prince upon his arrival at Athens International Airport, reflecting ongoing growth in bilateral relations.
Strategic forum yields €12.75 billion in new agreements
The visit coincided with the UAE-Greece Strategic Forum in Athens, where more than €12.75 billion worth of deals and collaborations were signed between UAE and Greek organizations. These agreements span sectors such as digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, industry, logistics, ports, healthcare, life sciences, and food security. It is important to note that these deals are separate from the €15 billion investment plan. Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis participated in the forum alongside senior officials from both governments.
UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi stated that the agreements, along with the new €15 billion investment plan, signal increasing confidence between the two economies. He emphasized that the focus now is on transforming this momentum into tangible projects. Describing the UAE as a hub for trade, investment, and connectivity, Al Zeyoudi also highlighted Greece’s strategic position as a gateway to Europe. Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis was also present at the forum.
Greece is viewed as a strategic entry point to European markets
The UAE expressed its confidence in Greece’s economic resilience and investment potential, citing the country’s advantageous location and its role in linking European markets with regional and international ones. The expanded investment plan aims to foster stronger cooperation between financial institutions and enterprises in both nations, while also encouraging innovation and the exchange of expertise. Ultimately, the initiative seeks to create new investment opportunities.
This announcement is part of a broader strategy by the UAE to establish long-term investment partnerships across Europe. In September, the UAE announced a €40 billion investment package for Germany in various sectors. Additionally, discussions with other European nations such as Italy have been intensified. Officials noted that the Greek initiative marks the beginning of a new phase of collaboration that extends beyond mere financial commitments.