London:Business leaders from Italy and the UAE gathered at Intesa Sanpaolo’s London branch to discuss the USD 40 billion investment framework aimed at fostering economic ties between the two nations. The event, titled ‘Italy and the Middle East Where Capital Meets Partnership,’ included senior representatives from both countries’ business and investment communities.

According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation, the investment framework was first announced during a state visit to Italy by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in February 2025. The meeting featured speeches from key figures such as Mauro Micillo, Alberto Mancuso, Andrea Bonomi, Emma Marcegaglia, Luca Molinari, and Veronica Squinzi.

H.E. Badr Jafar, delivering the keynote address, emphasized the strengthening relationship between the UAE and Italy, highlighting the 54 percent growth in non-oil bilateral trade over four years. The UAE has become a significant destination for Italian companies and investments, with approximately five thousand Italian companies now registered in the UAE.

The event also marked notable achievements in bilateral projects, such as the Eni–Khazna data-center campus in Lombardy and joint ventures like EDGE–Leonardo and Fincantieri–EDGE. These projects illustrate the ongoing transformation of commitments into tangible developments.

In 2023, the UAE and Italy formalized their relationship into a strategic partnership, with further developments including the fourth edition of Investopia Europe held in Milan and a five-year memorandum on industrial investment signed in Abu Dhabi.

H.E. Jafar stressed the role of family-owned enterprises and philanthropy in fostering long-term partnerships, noting Intesa Sanpaolo's historical commitment to social causes. He underscored the importance of building enduring relationships based on mutual understanding and trust.