The Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy of Cyprus, Dr. Nikodimos Damianou, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Artificial Intelligence with Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of AI, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications. The agreement was announced by the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy.

Dr. Damianou participated in the World Governments Summit 2025, held in Dubai on February 12–13, where he engaged in a series of meetings with government officials and technology industry executives.

During his visit, the Cypriot Deputy Minister held a bilateral meeting with his UAE counterpart, Omar Sultan Al Olama, who also serves as the Director General of the UAE Prime Minister’s Office. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations in digital transformation and exploring ways to deepen cooperation in specific AI-related fields.

The AI Cooperation Memorandum establishes the foundation for a stronger, more practical, and effective partnership between the two nations. It aims to foster innovation, economic growth, and provide solutions to shared socio-economic challenges.

According to the agreement, the two countries will collaborate on:

1. Exchanging best practices in AI development and implementation

2. Promoting joint research initiatives in AI and innovation

3. Accelerating AI adoption across the public and private sectors

4. Developing AI talent and expertise to strengthen the AI ecosystem in both nations

“With AI at the forefront of technological progress, international cooperation is essential, especially with pioneering nations like the UAE," Dr. Damianou stated. "This MoU reflects our shared commitment to leveraging AI as a key driver of development, benefiting our economies, industries, and citizens."

He further noted that this agreement could evolve into a regional initiative, combining Cyprus’ strategic location and geopolitical significance with the UAE’s leadership in AI and technology.

In his remarks, UAE Minister Omar Sultan Al Olama emphasized the UAE’s ongoing efforts to build global collaborations, facilitating knowledge exchange and accelerating digital innovation.

“These partnerships align with the vision of WGS 2025, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global AI and innovation hub,” he said. “They play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable, technology-driven future.”