On the sidelines of "Investopia Europe – Milan"

UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism discusses strengthening economic and tourism cooperation and new economy partnerships with Italian and European officials

• Bin Touq: The UAE is committed to expanding its economic partnerships with Italy and Malta, while strengthening cooperation in innovation, technology, tourism, advanced manufacturing, and entrepreneurship.

Abu Dhabi, xx May 2026 – H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism and Co-Chair of Investopia's Board of Trustees, held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with ministers and government officials from Italy and Malta on the sidelines of the 4th edition of ‘Investopia Europe – Milan’, which commenced on 15 May. The meetings focused on strengthening economic, investment, and tourism cooperation, as well as exploring strategic partnerships in future economy sectors that are a shared priority for the UAE and European markets.

The meetings included discussions with H.E. Adolfo Urso, Italian Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy; H.E. Gianmarco Mazzi, Italian Minister of Tourism; H.E. Giancarlo Giorgetti, Italian Minister of Economy and Finance; H.E. Attilio Fontana, President of the Lombardy Region; and H.E. Zachary Borg, Malta’s Special Envoy to the Gulf.

H.E. Bin Touq affirmed that, guided by the UAE’s wise leadership and its economic model rooted in openness, agility, and international cooperation, the country continues to strengthen its position as a trusted global economic partner. “The UAE’s economic relations with both Italy and Malta are witnessing sustainable growth across various fields of mutual interest, including innovation, knowledge, technology, tourism and hospitality, manufacturing, clean energy, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, logistics, and real estate,” H.E. noted.

Strengthening UAE-Italy Partnerships and Empowering Startups

During his meeting with H.E. Adolfo Urso, Italian Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy, H.E. Bin Touq discussed broadening economic and investment cooperation in line with the deepening bilateral relationship between the UAE and Italy. It was noted that the number of Italian companies operating in the UAE reached nearly 4,900 by the end of March 2026, reflecting strong investor confidence and growing commercial integration.

Both sides explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in advanced manufacturing, the new economy, innovation, and modern technology. The discussions also reviewed mechanisms to bolster entrepreneurship, empower startups to expand in both markets, attract strategic investments, and exchange expertise in developing economic policies that drive sustainable growth and elevate business competitiveness.

Driving Tourism Exchange, Aviation, and Hospitality Cooperation

H.E. Bin Touq and H.E. Gianmarco Mazzi, Italian Minister of Tourism, discussed strategies to strengthen UAE-Italy tourism exchange and link destinations through aviation routes. Both sides emphasised exchanging expertise in developing sustainable destinations and tourism events, while also exploring partnerships in hospitality, luxury tourism, and tech-driven tourism to increase tourist flows and support sustainable tourism.

Exploring Financial and Investment Cooperation

During talks with H.E. Giancarlo Giorgetti, Italian Minister of Economy and Finance, H.E. Bin Touq underscored the importance of advancing economic, financial, and investment cooperation. The discussions focused on expanding partnerships in the new economy and sustainability-driven industries to bolster mutual investments and create new opportunities for both business communities. Both sides also highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation in financial technology, expanding capital markets, and diversifying funding channels for the private sector and entrepreneurial ventures. Furthermore, they encouraged partnerships between financial and investment institutions to enhance investment flows and business activities.

Expanding Cooperation in Industries of Mutual Interest with the Lombardy Region

H.E. Bin Touq also met H.E. Attilio Fontana, President of the Lombardy Region. The discussions focused on advancing cooperation and exchanging knowledge in key industries, primarily innovation, modern technology, and the region's renowned advanced manufacturing. Both sides reviewed opportunities in entrepreneurship, tourism, and hospitality, with the aim of fostering greater integration between their economic ecosystems and encouraging joint investments between business communities.

UAE and Malta Discuss Economic Cooperation and Future Partnerships

During his meeting with H.E. Zachary Borg, Malta’s Special Envoy to the Gulf, H.E. Bin Touq discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation and exchanging expertise across vital industries, including services, innovation, digital economy, and tourism. Both sides also explored avenues for strengthening private-sector collaboration to support shared economic interests and unlock new pathways for sustainable growth and investment opportunities.