Istanbul: The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Trkiye continue to bolster their strategic partnership in trade and investment. This collaboration aims to explore further opportunities for cooperation between the business communities of the two countries under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which took effect on 1st September 2023. The agreement has already stimulated bilateral trade and investment flows.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, visited Istanbul to meet with ministers, senior government officials, and business leaders from both nations at the UAE-Trkiye Business Forum. He also participated in the third annual meeting of the UAE-Trkiye Business Council following its restructuring.
In 2025, the UAE's non-oil foreign trade with Trkiye surpassed US$45.2 billion, representing an annual growth of 15.5 percent compared to 2024. The CEPA has significantly strengthened trade and investment growth between the two countries, enabling them to surpass initial projections for bilateral non-oil trade.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi met with Mustafa Tuzcu, Deputy Minister of Trade of Trkiye, in Istanbul to discuss maximizing the benefits of the CEPA. The meeting focused on expanding the trade partnership and identifying new opportunities for investment and cooperation.
During the UAE-Trkiye Business Forum, Dr. Al Zeyoudi highlighted the importance of partnership and innovation in driving economic growth in both countries. He emphasized the strong relationship between the UAE and Trkiye, built on mutual respect and shared objectives. The CEPA has led to a significant increase in non-oil trade between the two countries since its inception in 2023.
In his remarks at the UAE-Trkiye Business Council's third annual meeting, Al Zeyoudi noted the council's role in the successful UAE-Trkiye strategic trade and investment partnership. The partnership is now reflected in data, joint projects, and sustainable partnerships across various sectors.
He stated that the UAE is committed to advancing its strategic partnership with Trkiye, aiming for more ambitious and innovative collaboration to achieve shared trade and investment goals.
The UAE delegation at the forum included business leaders and representatives from sectors such as logistics, trade and investment, energy, technology, agriculture, financial services, aviation, and healthcare. The forum witnessed the signing of two new memoranda of understanding to strengthen cooperation between the business communities of both nations.
The UAE-Trkiye CEPA is part of the UAE's national agenda to enhance foreign trade and investment flows, strengthen supply chain resilience, and create opportunities for the private sector. The meetings and discussions in Istanbul reinforced economic ties with a key partner, paving the way for further cooperation that supports mutual growth and prosperity.