Rome: UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held discussions on enhancing cooperation between the UAE and Italy, highlighting their strategic partnership.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting took place at Chigi Palace in Rome during the UAE President's state visit to Italy. Prime Minister Meloni welcomed Sheikh Mohamed and his delegation, expressing hope that the visit would further advance bilateral cooperation.
The discussions reviewed the development of UAE-Italy relations, emphasizing areas such as economy, investment, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and cultural exchange. Both leaders affirmed that their strategic partnership is a vital framework for advancing ties and fulfilling the aspirations of their people.
Sheikh Mohamed noted that UAE-Italy relations have evolved since the UAE's founding and have grown into a strategic partnership. He reiterated the commitment to elevate this partnership to a comprehensive strategic level, benefiting both nations and their peoples. He highlighted the non-oil trade volume, which reached USD 14.1 billion in 2024, marking a 21.2% increase from 2023, and anticipated further growth through enhanced cooperation.
The UAE President also underscored the shared interests in sustainability, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and innovation. He emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and collaboration, aiming to strengthen people-to-people ties.
Sheikh Mohamed expressed optimism that the UAE's announced USD 40 billion investment in Italy would contribute to mutual development and prosperity. Prime Minister Meloni conveyed her country's eagerness to continue strengthening cooperation with the UAE to serve shared interests.
The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President; and several other UAE and Italian officials.