Dear editor,
Strong partnerships are built on shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision for the future. The relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Italy embodies these principles, bringing together two nations that firmly believe in a commitment to peace, prosperity and growth. Values embodied by the House of the Abrahamic Family in Abu Dhabi and the Document on Human Brotherhood, signed by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar in 2019 in Abu Dhabi.
Today, our bond is stronger than ever, driven by a desire to create opportunities for our citizens and contribute to a more stable and prosperous world. A collaboration that looks to the future but has deep roots.
It is no coincidence that the first written mentions of many Emirates locations, such as Sir Bani Yas, Dubai or Sharjah, can be found in a book written by the Venetian traveler, Gasparo Balbi, in 1590, exhibited in the public spaces of Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi.
In 1951, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father, visited Italy as part of a journey that enabled him to experience the richness of European culture and history. At the time, the UAE did not yet exist in its present form, but Sheikh Zayed was already thinking about the future. He was inspired by what he had seen on that journey and wanted the same for his people. Italy was a country that had risen again thanks to resilience, willpower and ingenuity capable of combining respect for tradition and an eye to innovation.
Seventy-four years later, our relations have evolved into a powerful force for progress. The visit of the President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to Italy this week and the meeting with President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni are the mark of a Strategic Partnership that will define our cooperation for decades to come.
Trade has long been a pillar of our relations. Non-oil trade between Italy and the UAE is steadily increasing, testifying to the strong commercial ties that sustain employment, promote innovation and fuel economic growth.
Whether it is design, aerospace, technology or sustainability, our two countries are hubs of excellence, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
This week we took major steps forward, expanding cooperation in the fields of artificial intelligence, quantum computing and advanced manufacturing. Italy’s world-class expertise in robotics and automation complements the UAE’s bold investment in innovation, enabling both countries to be at the forefront of global progress.
Space is another frontier where our collaboration is growing stronger. Italy is one of the few countries with independent access to space, while the UAE has quickly emerged as a leader in space exploration, sending the first Arab mission to Mars. Our collaboration in this field is not only about technology, but also about human ambition, curiosity and a common determination to push the boundaries of what we know and to tackle global challenges such as food insecurity and climate change together.
We share a vision of an enlarged Mediterranean of peace, extending from Italy to the Gulf region and beyond to India.
We are part of the India – Middle East – Europe Economic Corridor project, one of the most ambitious inter-regional connectivity initiatives, that promises to connect India to Europe via the Middle East, with some 5,000 kilometers of sea and rail connections, opening up new prospects for economic development.
Our vision widens to Africa, a continent with huge potential. Italy and the UAE are committed to an approach based on equal and mutually beneficial partnerships. Through the Mattei Plan and the UAE’s long-term investment in infrastructure, energy and agriculture, we are working together to create growth opportunities for Africa and its citizens.
Yet, progress comes with responsibilities. We know that innovation must serve stability. This is the reason why we have deepened our cooperation in defense, cybersecurity, combating criminal networks trafficking in human beings, drugs and weapons, and in counter-terrorism. We also believe that diplomacy must be proactive. Whether it is the conflict in Ukraine or in the Middle East, we are committed to finding solutions that prioritise peace and humanitarian aid. Our countries believe in the power of dialogue over division and of pragmatism over inaction.
Italy and the United Arab Emirates are partners in the commitment to a sustainable and development-friendly energy transition. We are at the forefront in the search for innovative solutions: from the recent EUR 1 billion agreement that will enable our country to import renewable energy from Albania and the Balkans, providing clean energy to Italian households, to joint research on water management and sustainable agriculture, we are proving that the green transition is not just a necessity, but an opportunity. The UAE’s expertise in large-scale renewable projects and Italy’s leadership in clean energy technology make us natural partners in this mission.
The extraordinary friendship and strategic partnership between Italy and the UAE is based on people. The scientists who together, in Milan and Dubai, carry out research that will improve people’s lives. The students, the artists, the professionals whose exchanges enrich our societies.
This week’s visit is a milestone and a decisive moment for our future. Italy and the United Arab Emirates are moving forward together as global strategic partners, not just adapting to a changing world, but proactively shaping it. Together, we are building a future of peace, prosperity and growth rooted in innovation, strengthened by security and driven by commitment to future generations.
Deputy Prime and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
UAE Deputy Prime and Minister of Foreign Affairs
