**NICOSIA, CYPRUS** – A landmark visit by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Cyprus has formalised an elevated strategic relationship between the two nations, signalling a significant boost in bilateral trade and investment. The discussions, held over the weekend, underscored a shared commitment to deepening cooperation across a spectrum of vital sectors, from energy and technology to tourism and security, with the UAE expressing considerable interest in tangible projects within the island nation.
The high-profile engagement, which included extensive delegation talks at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, represents a pivotal moment in the evolving partnership. President Nikos Christodoulides welcomed the UAE President, highlighting the visit as a crucial step in transitioning the recently upgraded strategic alliance into concrete, actionable initiatives. Discussions were reportedly comprehensive, delving into opportunities for joint ventures and mutual investment that could profoundly impact Cyprus's economic landscape and its regional standing.
Central to the discussions was a compelling proposal from the UAE for a strategic energy partnership, aimed at positioning Cyprus as a pivotal energy hub for the wider Mediterranean region and the European Union. This ambitious vision encompasses investments in renewable energy sources, energy storage solutions, and the development of natural gas infrastructure. The UAE's keen interest was further evidenced by specific investment proposals targeting key Cypriot assets, including the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, exploration within the Cypriot Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and the development of AI-enabled data centres.
Further cementing this burgeoning economic alliance, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed to establish the UAE-Cyprus Joint Business & Investment Council. This dedicated forum is designed to streamline future business engagements and facilitate a more robust flow of investment between the two countries. The initiative is expected to act as a catalyst, connecting Cypriot enterprises with substantial Emirati capital and expertise, thereby fostering mutually beneficial growth.
The visit also featured a dynamic business forum, orchestrated by the Cypriot Presidency, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KEBE), and Invest Cyprus. This event brought together prominent business leaders from both nations, providing a platform to explore specific investment avenues and forge new commercial relationships. Areas of particular focus for UAE investment include enhancements to port infrastructure, such as those at Larnaca and Vasilikos, private sector mixed-use development projects, the laying of subsea data cables, and the development of crucial electricity interconnections. The technological park at Pentakomo also emerged as a site of significant interest.
The palpable enthusiasm from the UAE for investing in Cyprus was described by Cypriot officials as "intense and high," suggesting a strong conviction in the island's strategic advantages and economic potential. This intensified engagement is poised to yield tangible results, with the establishment of the Joint Business & Investment Council serving as a testament to the shared ambition to translate strategic alignment into measurable economic progress and enhanced regional stability.