Greek and Emirati leaders plan to meet in coming weeks

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have agreed to hold a bilateral meeting in the near future, according to officials in Athens. The announcement came following a telephone conversation between the two leaders on Monday, during which they discussed strengthening Greece-UAE relations and addressing pressing regional challenges.

The prime minister’s office confirmed that the phone call covered bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors and regional affairs. According to the statement, diplomatic efforts to secure peace in the Middle East featured prominently in their discussions, reflecting both nations’ interest in regional stability.

Greece-UAE Relations Strengthened by Major Investment

The planned meeting comes as Greece-UAE relations have deepened significantly through substantial economic cooperation. The Emirates have committed to a €4 billion investment program in Greece through their state fund, marking one of the largest foreign investment initiatives in the country. This financial commitment underscores the strategic partnership between the two nations and their mutual interest in economic development.

Beyond financial investments, the two countries have expanded their collaboration into critical sectors. Defense cooperation has emerged as a key pillar of the bilateral relationship, alongside joint initiatives in renewable energy. Additionally, both nations are working together on decarbonization projects and green transition strategies, aligning with global climate goals and sustainable development objectives.

Growing People-to-People Connections

The strengthening ties between Greece and the UAE extend beyond governmental and business relationships. Approximately 1,500 Greek citizens currently live and work in the Emirates, primarily concentrated in the major urban centers of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This expatriate community represents growing people-to-people connections that complement official diplomatic and economic ties.

The presence of Greek professionals in the UAE spans various industries, contributing to the knowledge exchange and cultural understanding between the two countries. Meanwhile, Emirati investments in Greece are creating new employment opportunities and driving economic growth in multiple sectors of the Greek economy.

Regional Dynamics and Middle East Peace Efforts

The emphasis on Middle East peace during the phone conversation reflects the geopolitical importance of Greece-UAE cooperation. Both countries occupy strategic positions in their respective regions and maintain significant diplomatic influence. Their collaboration on regional stability issues demonstrates a shared commitment to constructive engagement in addressing complex security challenges.

The UAE has increasingly positioned itself as a mediator in regional conflicts, while Greece maintains important relationships across the Eastern Mediterranean. However, specific details about the peace initiatives discussed during the call were not disclosed by officials. The convergence of interests between Athens and Abu Dhabi on regional matters adds a diplomatic dimension to their already robust economic partnership.

Expanding Economic Cooperation

In contrast to traditional bilateral relationships focused primarily on trade, the Greece-UAE partnership encompasses a comprehensive approach to economic development. The €4 billion investment program targets strategic sectors that align with both countries’ long-term development priorities. Energy sector cooperation, particularly in renewable sources, positions both nations to benefit from the global transition toward sustainable energy systems.

The decarbonization and green transition initiatives represent forward-looking areas of collaboration. These projects not only address environmental concerns but also create opportunities for technological innovation and economic diversification for both Greece and the Emirates.

Officials have not announced a specific date or location for the upcoming meeting between Prime Minister Mitsotakis and President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Further details regarding the bilateral summit are expected to be released as arrangements are finalized in the coming weeks.