UAE And Ukraine Discuss Promising Investment Opportunities After CEPA Signing

The UAE recently hosted a business roundtable to explore investment opportunities in Ukraine. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, led the event. It included UAE government officials, businesses, and investment groups. The Ukrainian delegation was headed by Yuliia Svyrydenko, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy.

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Ukraine was a focal point of the discussions. This agreement aims to boost trade relations and investment flows between the two countries. By 2031, it is expected to contribute approximately US$369 million to the UAE's GDP and US$874 million to Ukraine's GDP.

Infrastructure projects were highlighted as promising areas for investment under CEPA. The agreement is designed to foster strategic investments across sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and technology. It also aims to support start-ups and promote knowledge exchange between the two nations.

Al Zeyoudi remarked on the significance of this gathering: "This roundtable not only demonstrates our commitment to enhancing economic ties with Ukraine but will also accelerate the mutual benefits that our newly signed CEPA offers." He noted that pro-growth reforms in Ukraine could enhance its appeal as an investment destination.

Yulia Svyrydenko emphasised that signing CEPA marks a new era of friendship between the two nations. She stated that there is great opportunity for private sector collaboration in sectors with high growth potential such as energy projects, logistics, transportation, healthcare, and manufacturing.

The roundtable explored specific opportunities in infrastructure development and agriculture. Food security was another area of interest, along with potential privatisation of large-scale state-owned Ukrainian enterprises.

Focus on Logistics and Transport Projects

Discussions at the meeting highlighted logistics and transport projects as key areas requiring substantial capital investment in coming years. Roads, ports, and airports were identified as priorities. Additionally, travel and tourism, advanced technology, and agriculture were seen as immediate areas for collaboration.

The successful conclusion of the roundtable further strengthened bilateral ties between the UAE and Ukraine. This builds on CEPA and 28 Memoranda of Understanding signed in 2021 valued at over $3 billion. The expanding partnership lays a foundation for enhanced economic collaboration in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

With inputs from WAM