Nicosia: Cyprus-United Arab Emirates relations have moved from strategic convergence to strategic implementation, Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said in a written statement on Saturday, following the completion of official talks between President Nikos Christodoulides and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Letymbiotis described the visit as 'exceptionally important and multifaceted,' noting that it was the first-ever official visit by a UAE President to the Republic of Cyprus and a milestone in the deepening of bilateral ties. The two leaders concluded their talks on December 14 at the Presidential Palace, reaffirming their shared commitment to further expand and deepen cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. The visit constitutes the clearest confirmation to date that Cyprus-UAE relations have been substantially upgraded and are now acquiring greater operational depth and momentum.
During the discussions, the two presidents agreed that the relationship is entering a new phase focused on implementation, with political trust built over time at leadership, technocratic and business levels now translating into tangible objectives and actions. Priority areas include the economy, investment, energy and technology, as well as sectors that strengthen the social and cultural dimensions of the partnership.
The two sides reviewed and agreed on the need to intensify cooperation in key sectors such as the economy, trade, technology, renewable energy, education, culture and tourism, as well as synergies that support mutual growth. Emphasis was placed on ensuring that cooperation is underpinned by stable structures, continuity and measurable indicators of progress. Particular weight was given to the investment agenda and to the UAE's intention to proceed with more immediate and substantive investment initiatives in Cyprus. The statement noted a shared objective to boost both private and public investment flows through specific projects and mature investment opportunities.
Cyprus, the Spokesman said, stands ready to provide full support and to facilitate and accelerate procedures where possible, especially for investments in high value-added sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology, tourism and shipping.
As part of the visit, reference was made to the rollout of institutional tools aimed at making cooperation more practical and functional. The two sides welcomed the establishment of a permanent framework for business cooperation through the creation of a Cyprus-UAE Joint Business Council, involving the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KEBE), Invest Cyprus and the UAE Chambers of Commerce Federation. In parallel, the two sides agreed to work towards a joint action plan covering areas of converging interest, including trade, investment, energy, political dialogue, tourism, culture, education, shipping, security and critical infrastructure.
The talks also touched on the importance of Cyprus' upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union, starting on January 1, 2026, and the additional opportunities it creates for strengthening dialogue and cooperation between the UAE and the EU. Both sides expressed confidence that the Cypriot Presidency could contribute to enhanced EU-UAE relations, as well as broader cooperation between the EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council, with a practical orientation. In this context, reference was made to the launch of negotiations for an EU-UAE Free Trade Agreement, seen as a development that could unlock new prospects for trade, investment and economic cooperation.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international developments, with an emphasis on the Middle East, peace and regional stability. Particular attention was given to continuing and strengthening cooperation on the provision of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, reflecting the shared commitment of both countries to alleviating humanitarian suffering and supporting conditions for dialogue and diplomatic solutions.
President Christodoulides, the Spokesman concluded, views the visit as opening a new chapter in Cyprus-UAE relations, giving the partnership a clear operational character and laying the groundwork for measurable results that enhance growth, resilience and stability in the wider region.