United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has paid his first official visit to the Greek Cypriot administration, holding high-level talks with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides in Nicosia.

Sheikh Mohammed was welcomed with an official ceremony at the presidential palace, reflecting the importance attached to the visit by the Greek Cypriot side. The meeting marked a new stage in bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Greek Cypriot administration.

According to international media reports, the leaders discussed ways to enhance cooperation in strategic sectors, particularly investment, energy, trade, and tourism. Special emphasis was placed on expanding economic partnerships and encouraging Emirati investments in infrastructure, renewable energy, and real estate projects.

Energy cooperation reportedly featured prominently in the talks, with discussions touching on developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and prospects for collaboration in energy security and diversification. The two sides also explored opportunities for cooperation in innovation, technology, and climate-related initiatives.

Following the bilateral meeting, expanded talks were held between the two delegations, during which regional and international issues were reviewed. International press coverage noted that the leaders exchanged views on Middle East developments, tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, and broader global challenges affecting political stability and economic growth.

Officials described the visit as a milestone that underlines the growing diplomatic engagement between Abu Dhabi and Nicosia. Both sides expressed their intention to deepen political dialogue and strengthen long-term cooperation across multiple sectors.

The visit is widely seen by international observers as part of the UAE’s broader strategy to expand its diplomatic and economic footprint in the Eastern Mediterranean region. (ILKHA)