Invest Cyprus participated in the exclusive event 'From Brazil to Europe & MENA: Unlocking Business & Investment Opportunities through Portugal and Cyprus,' held on 28 April 2026 at the WTC Lisbon.
The event brought together distinguished leaders, investors, policymakers, and representatives of the innovation ecosystem to highlight new strategic pathways connecting Brazil, Portugal, Cyprus, Europe, and the Middle East.
A key milestone of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Invest Cyprus and the Portuguese-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, marking a new chapter in the business and investment relations between Brazil, Portugal, and Cyprus. The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation to promote investments, business synergies, economic growth, and stronger connectivity among Latin America, Europe, and the MENA region.
This initiative is incorporated in Invest Cyprus’s broader outward-looking strategy towards Latin America, which began in September 2023 with the signing of the first investment cooperation agreements with organizations such as Invest Paraná, Invest Minas, and Fecomércio Goiás. Since then, more than five investment delegations have visited Cyprus, with part of the investment activity already implemented and further opportunities currently under discussion.
Invest Cyprus CEO Marios Tannousis participated in the event’s panel discussion “Connecting Brazil to Europe and MENA: A Strategic Path via Portugal & Cyprus”, which showcased cooperation prospects in the areas of investment, mobility, entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable international expansion.
Commenting on the initiative’s significance, Tannousis stated that “we are opening a new channel of cooperation between Cyprus, Portugal and Brazil, with clear prospects for connecting businesses, investors and innovation ecosystems across Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Cyprus can play a strategic role as a reliable business base within the EU and as a gateway to the wider region, and Invest Cyprus remains committed to building partnerships that create practical opportunities for investment, entrepreneurship, and long-term economic growth.”
The event was also attended by the Ambassador of Cyprus to Portugal, H.E. Elpidoforos Economou, and other distinguished speakers, including Luciano Menezes, Antonis Georgakis, Otacilio Soares, and Marielle Burti. A particularly noteworthy contribution was made by Demetris Skourides, Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology of the Republic of Cyprus, Chairman of the National AI Taskforce and the Board of the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), who emphasized the role of innovation, technology, artificial intelligence, fintech, and cross-border cooperation in shaping international partnerships. Skourides noted that entrepreneurs and innovators can now design in Brazil, conduct research and development (R&D) in Cyprus, and build in Portugal. This triad creates multiple combinations for generating added value within the innovation economy, as innovative companies from Latin America (LATAM) seek to expand into the EU, the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), and India through Cyprus and Portugal. Skourides also stated that the Brazil-Portugal-Cyprus cooperation represents another important channel within President Nikos Christodoulides’ strategy for economic diversification, alongside the United States, the GCC, and India. This development creates strategic opportunities for Cyprus as it transitions towards a knowledge- and innovation-based economy.
Invest Cyprus expressed its appreciation to the co-organizers and partner organizations, including the Portuguese-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce and WTC Lisbon, as well as to all who contributed to the initiative's success. Special thanks were extended to H.E. Vasilios Philippou, Ambassador of Cyprus to Brazil, H.E. Ana-Maria Bierenbach, Ambassador of Brazil to Cyprus, and H.E. Raimundo Carreiro Silva, Ambassador of Brazil to Portugal, for their valuable support.
The event marked a meaningful step towards strengthening strategic cooperation among Brazil, Portugal, and Cyprus, enhancing connectivity among Europe, Latin America, and the MENA region, and paving the way for new business, investment, and innovation-driven partnerships.
Invest Cyprus is the official investment authority of the Republic of Cyprus, dedicated to promoting investment and supporting the country’s economic growth. Its mission is to attract quality foreign direct investment, support international businesses seeking to establish operations in Cyprus, and promote the country as an attractive and competitive business destination. Guided by transparency, efficiency, and the provision of comprehensive services, Invest Cyprus serves as a strategic partner for every investor who chooses Cyprus.
For more information, visit: www.investcyprus.org.cy
