Nicosia: President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, and his UAE counterpart, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan, expressed their will to enhance bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation in various fields, during their private meeting on Sunday at the Presidential Palace, in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides welcomed his UAE counterpart to Cyprus and spoke of "an historic visit, the first ever by a UAE President, a visit that marks a new milestone in our relations." He emphasized the strategic depth and importance of their relationship, which is built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for stability and prosperity in their neighborhood.
President Christodoulides noted that the visit marked a decision to elevate cooperation to the next level, unlocking potential in trade, investment, tourism, energy, defense, and maritime. He expressed joy for welcoming his UAE counterpart to Cyprus ahead of assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, highlighting the strengthening of the EU's relationship with the Gulf, particularly with the UAE, as a priority.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan remarked that since establishing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022, bilateral relations have advanced, particularly in energy, trade, investment, tourism, and education. He highlighted the launch of negotiations on a free trade agreement between the UAE and the European Union as a significant moment, which will unlock new opportunities for trade and economic cooperation.
The UAE President also pointed to Cyprus holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026 as promising further opportunities for cooperation. He emphasized the importance of joint efforts in providing humanitarian support to the Palestinian people and the Gaza Strip and expressed a commitment to continuing assistance.
Finally, Sheikh Mohammed thanked President Christodoulides for the warm welcome and expressed his wish for the continued progress of bilateral relations.