Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Niamh Smyth, Ireland’s Minister for Trade Promotion, AI and Digital Transformation, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on advancing economic and technical collaboration, including the creation of a Joint Economic Commission between the UAE and Ireland.
This agreement forms part of a wider initiative to boost shared economic growth and expand private sector collaboration between both nations.
The MoU is intended to reinforce trade ties and establish an official platform for continuous dialogue. Areas of cooperation include trade, investment, energy efficiency, renewables, digital transformation, infrastructure, food security, healthcare innovation, supply chain resilience, and other mutually beneficial sectors. Central to the MoU is a commitment to inclusive and diversified cooperation built on shared values and mutual benefit.
Through the Joint Economic Commission, both parties will promote business visits, share updates on economic developments, and cultivate an enabling environment for reciprocal investment. It will also encourage active participation in international exhibitions, forums, and other events to address barriers to economic collaboration.
Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi emphasised the strategic nature of UAE-Ireland ties, grounded in shared ambition and respect. He described the MoU as a strong signal of intent to unlock further opportunities for cooperation and investment.
Minister Smyth expressed appreciation for the UAE’s hospitality, noting the MoU’s significance as the two nations commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations. She highlighted that the Joint Commission will serve as a dedicated platform for enhanced collaboration across sectors, particularly in education, aviation, health, and green technology.
Smyth also acknowledged the contribution of national agencies such as Enterprise Ireland, Bord Bia, IDA, and Tourism Ireland, whose collective efforts have elevated UAE-Ireland relations to unprecedented levels of partnership and economic engagement.
