The Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy and Khazna data center provider, member of G42 group (UAE), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which provides a framework for initiatives aimed at supporting and advancing the digital infrastructure of Cyprus, with a focus on joint data center projects.

A press release said that the MoU was signed in the context of an official visit by the Deputy Minister, Nicodemos Damianou, to Dubai, accompanied by the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology, Demetris Skourides.

«We are excited to be entering this promising partnership with Khazna, the largest data center operator in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and a prominent member of the renowned G42 conglomerate», the Deputy Minister said.

He added that this MoU signifies our strong commitment to elevate Cyprus as a key player in the global digital landscape, and also marks the beginning of a broader collaboration with G42 across a wide range of sectors and domains.

The Deputy Minister pointed out that connecting Europe, Asia and Africa with the Mediterranean region, Cyprus constitutes a natural data gateway serving businesses looking for a reliable, scalable, and secure data platform and access to the European Market.

"Our country is already well connected in terms of submarine fiber-optic cabling, with a robust network of 12 submarine cables connecting the island to global markets, as well as satellite teleports, and we are looking to invest further in this area," he added.

«This partnership», he continued, «sets the foundation for exploring synergies in areas beyond infrastructure, such as artificial intelligence, smart mobility and space solutions, areas that are essential to our vision of a digitally advanced Cyprus. Working with G42 to integrate advanced technologies will enhance our digital capabilities and position Cyprus at the forefront of technological innovation," he added.

The Cypriot economy, he said, amongst Europe’s strongest innovators is now accelerating into adopting high-tech solutions and services for both its citizens and businesses, and is embarking on a digital-first, customer-centric model.

Moreover, he noted that Cyprus has already made significant strides in building a robust digital economy, with a strong ICT and R&I ecosystem, and is fast developing into a regional tech and innovation hub.

In that context, there is significant potential to tap into. By partnering with Khazna, leveraging on their expertise and advanced solutions, we aim to drive our digital agenda forward, across public and private sectors, create new business and economic opportunities, and ultimately benefit our society and future generations, he said.

On his part, the CEO of Khazna, Hassan Alnaqbi, stated that «we are excited to have initiated an open dialogue with the government of Cyprus to explore opportunities where Khazna can contribute to the nation’s digital transformation efforts".

"As a leader in providing hyperscale digital infrastructure, we look forward to further exploring innovative solutions that will enhance the country’s digital capabilities and further strengthen its position as a growing hub for technology in the region," he concluded.