- Khaled bin Mohamed concluded a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with Ecuador during an official visit to Quito.
- The deal aims to cut tariffs, boost clean energy and mining cooperation, and unlock more than $3 billion in potential investments.
Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived at Carondelet Palace in Quito for an official visit to Ecuador. Authorities received him with a ceremonial welcome. Both nations performed their anthems and conducted a guard of honour alongside Daniel Noboa.
During bilateral talks, the Crown Prince conveyed greetings from Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates. He expressed wishes for Ecuador’s continued progress and prosperity. In response, President Noboa described the visit as a platform to deepen strategic ties. He also asked that his greetings be delivered to the UAE leadership.
Both leaders prioritised cooperation in food security and sustainable agriculture. They also advanced discussions on clean and renewable energy, advanced technology and mutual investment. Therefore, the talks focused on economic diversification in both countries.
Following the meeting, the two sides concluded a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. The CEPA will lower tariffs and remove trade barriers. In addition, it will strengthen collaboration between public and private sector actors. The agreement targets clean energy, mining, logistics, advanced technology and agriculture.
Officials also unveiled new cooperation agreements. The UAE Ministry of Investment and Ecuador’s Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investments and Fisheries agreed to explore fresh opportunities in strategic sectors.
Meanwhile, EDGE Group signed a memorandum of understanding with Ecuador’s Ministry of National Defence. The deal will enhance security infrastructure under a $250 million joint programme. It will focus on surveillance systems and border protection.
The UAE Accountability Authority and Ecuador’s Council for Citizen Participation and Social Control signed an MoU to strengthen anti-corruption cooperation. The agreement promotes governance, integrity and transparency in public institutions.
Officials confirmed that both governments are discussing development initiatives exceeding $3 billion. Consequently, the scope of bilateral engagement continues to expand.
The UAE remains Ecuador’s main trading partner in the Arab region and Africa. Non-oil trade reached about $373.6 million in 2025, reflecting steady growth.
With this agreement, Ecuador becomes the fourth Latin American country to sign a CEPA with the UAE, following Costa Rica, Chile and Colombia. Negotiations continue with Peru as the UAE broadens its trade and investment footprint across South America.