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Historic UAE presidential visit marks new chapter in Cyprus–UAE relations
First state visit by a UAE President elevates bilateral ties to strategic implementation, anchored by a joint declaration and expanded cooperation across key sectors
- PUBLISHED: Wed 28 Jan 2026, 3:37 PM
- By:
- Kushmita Bose
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Cyprus and the UAE entered a new phase of their bilateral relationship on December 14, 2025, as the UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan undertook a historic state visit to Cyprus — the first ever by a UAE Head of State. The visit, hosted by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides, marked a defining milestone in Cyprus–UAE relations and underscored the growing strategic depth between the two nations.
The state visit reflected a partnership built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for regional stability and prosperity. Both sides emphasised that their relationship has matured beyond strategic alignment, with the December 2025 engagements signalling a clear transition toward strategic implementation and tangible outcomes.
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At the heart of the visit was the issuance of a joint declaration by Sheikh Mohamed and President Nikos Christodoulides, formally strengthening the Cyprus–UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The declaration outlined an ambitious framework for cooperation spanning trade, investment, energy, defence, tourism, maritime affairs, technology, and humanitarian initiatives.
A key outcome of the declaration was the agreement to develop a Joint Action Plan, to be supervised by the foreign ministries of both countries, aimed at identifying and advancing concrete projects across priority sectors. Economic cooperation featured prominently, with renewed focus on renewable energy, digital transformation, infrastructure development, and cross-border investment opportunities. The leaders also reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional stability, including support for United Nations efforts toward a bizonal, bicommunal solution to the Cyprus issue.
The visit further acknowledged Cyprus’s forthcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026, positioning it as an additional platform to deepen EU–UAE dialogue and cooperation. Humanitarian collaboration was also highlighted, building on the two countries’ established track record in maritime aid and regional relief initiatives.
Cyprus reaffirmed its role as a stable and reliable partner in the Eastern Mediterranean, while the UAE reiterated its interest in leveraging Cyprus as a strategic gateway for broader engagement with Europe. The visit followed earlier joint statements and the formalisation of strategic ties in 2022, marking a decisive shift toward implementation and delivery.
Among those closely involved in the visit was the Commercial Counsellor of the Cyprus Trade Centre in the GCC Region – Dubai, George Partasides. Partasides described it as a real honour to be part of a landmark moment in Cyprus–UAE relations, noting that such high-level engagements reinforce bilateral cooperation and reflect a shared commitment to long-term collaboration.
During various discussions in the two days of meetings, Partasides extended his appreciation for the UAE’s strong commitment, openness, and continued support, emphasising that the outcomes of the visit will help unlock new sustainable partnerships and long-term value for both economies. In his capacity as Commercial Counsellor, Partasides reaffirmed his role in supporting initiatives that translate political alignment into practical cooperation, particularly in energy, trade, digitalization and investment.
As a passionate storyteller and content writer, Kushmita Bose loves weaving narratives that inform, inspire, and entertain. Whether she's unraveling tech revolutions, dissecting industry reports, or bringing a brand’s journey to life, Kushmita thrives on transforming ideas into captivating stories. When she’s not busy crafting content, you’ll probably find her daydreaming about her next travel adventure.
