Abu dhabi: President Santiago Pe±a of Paraguay recently met with Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, and his delegation during their official visit to Asunci³n. The meeting, which took place in the presence of Dr. Sagheer Al Ahbabi, UAE Ambassador to Paraguay, aimed to strengthen the economic ties between the two nations.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Al Zeyoudi conveyed greetings from UAE's leadership to President Pe±a, expressing their wishes for continued progress in Paraguay. In response, President Pe±a emphasized Paraguay's commitment to enhancing trade and investment relations with the UAE, reflecting the growing bilateral momentum and the robust economic partnership between the two countries. He highlighted the strategic importance of both nations in fostering trade and investment flows and supporting shared economic goals.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi's visit included meetings with key Paraguayan officials such as Rub©n Ramrez Lezcano, Marco Riquelme, and Rodrigo Maluff. The visit also featured the UAE-Paraguay Business Forum, attended by leaders from both countries, who discussed opportunities in sectors like technology, renewable energy, and agriculture.
Participants at the forum explored collaborations in priority sectors, emphasizing the role of the private sector in fostering economic cooperation. Discussions centered on expanding partnerships in value-added sectors and leveraging the strategic positions of both nations to strengthen trade and investment.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi noted Paraguay's significance as an economic partner for the UAE, highlighting opportunities to enhance cooperation in various sectors. He expressed eagerness to elevate economic relations with Paraguay and Mercosur countries, supporting Sustainable Development Goals and reinforcing the UAE's global trade and investment position.
Marco Riquelme remarked on the rapid growth of economic relations with the UAE, noting significant opportunities for expansion in trade, investment, and food security. He identified the UAE delegation's visit as a milestone reflecting mutual trust and a shared commitment to strengthening economic partnerships.
Non-oil trade between the UAE and Paraguay reached US$249.2 million in 2025, marking a 53.8 percent increase from 2024. This growth underscores the deepening economic relations and confidence between the business communities of both nations.
The UAE delegation's visit aligns with its strategy to bolster economic presence in global markets and diversify trade partnerships through the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) program, establishing the UAE as a central hub for trade and investment.