WAIPA

🌍 Ready to take your investment promotion strategy to the next level?   This May, WAIPA in collaboration with World Free Zones Organization ("World FZO") is hosting an exclusive Masterclass for IPA and SEZ professionals—an interactive, knowledge-rich experience designed to empower, inspire, and sharpen your skills.   ➡️ Swipe right for a sneak peek of what’s in store.   Strategic insights, key frameworks, and practical tools you can apply immediately to strengthen your IPA's role in fostering sustainable growth.   Click here to download the Masterclass brochure: https://lnkd.in/d-yUQnTV   💡 What makes this masterclass unique? ✅ Expert-led sessions from top multilateral leaders ✅ 35+ case studies focusing on sustainability, technology & advanced strategies ✅ On-site visits to Geneva's diplomatic hubs ✅ Live Case Assignment: a 90-day real-world executive challenge ✅ Visits to Swiss innovation zones  ✅ Practical insights on responsible leadership, digital transformation, aftercare, advocacy & more   Register here to position your agency at the forefront of investment promotion excellence: https://lnkd.in/dNKk4sVM

Eid Mubarak from WAIPA! 🌙 As we mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan, may this joyous occasion bring abundant blessings, inner peace, and prosperity your way. Let us continue to foster compassion, unity, and hope—values that bring us together across borders and communities. Wishing all our members and partners that celebrate a peaceful and joyful Eid!

What an incredible success! The first-ever International Summit on “Unlocking Investment Through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)” has come to a close, and it’s safe to say that Cyprus has made its mark on the global investment landscape. Hosted by Invest Cyprus in collaboration with the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies WAIPA and the WAPPP | World Association of PPP Units & Professionals the summit, held on March 26-27, 2025, at the Hilton Nicosia, exceeded expectations. Mr. Marios Tannousis, CEO of Invest Cyprus, pointed out that "by leveraging the advantages of both sectors, public and private, their partnerships combine the efficiency, expertise, and resources of the private sector with the public sector's access to large-scale projects, all with a focus on social responsibility.” Mr. Evgenios Evgeniou, Chairman of Invest Cyprus, opened the event with inspiring remarks: “We are here to share best practices, regulatory insights, and help promote PPP projects and facilitate tangible investments going forward, so as to create long-term economic growth and job creation.”   Global leaders, policymakers, and experts shared insights on strategies for sustainable economic growth through PPPs. Key topics included: -The role of PPPs and FDI in economic development -Legal and regulatory frameworks for PPPs -Best practices and success stories -Challenges and implementation strategies -Networking with international investment professionals -Practical training for Cyprus' public and select private sector professionals A sincere thank you to all attendees, speakers, and partners, including but not limited to: Mr. Alexis Vafeades, Minister of Transport, Communications & Works Mr. George Papanastasiou Minister of Energy, Commerce, & Industry Ms. Irene Piki Deputy Minister to the President Mr. Kostas Koumis Deputy Ministry of Tourism Mr. Ziad-Alexandre Hayek, World Association of PPP Units & Professionals (WAPPP) Mr. Jean-Christophe BARTH-COULLARÉ, Executive Director at WAPPP Mr. Stelios Demetriou Partner, Leader Strategy & Transactions Services, CESA M&A Leader, EY Cyprus Mr. Ismail Ersahin Executive Director & CEO, WAIPA Mr. José Henrique Vieira Martins Chief Expert, WAIPA  Mr. Edward Farquharson Mr. Thibaut Mourgues Managing Partner, Camden Advisory  and all professionals, who contributed to this event. We also extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, the President of Cyprus, for his continued support of this vital initiative. The journey doesn’t stop here—together, we’re unlocking new opportunities for growth, innovation, and prosperity. Special thanks to our Gold Sponsor EY, & sponsors, Hermes Airports Ltd & the European Investment Bank (EIB), for their invaluable support in making this summit a reality. Under the Auspices of: Republic Of Cyprus Coordinator: IMH Business   #InvestCyprus #PPP #InvestmentSummit #Cyprus2025 #GlobalCollaboration #BusinessInnovation #EconomicGrowth #Leadership #SustainableDevelopment

How can Investment Promotion Agencies stay competitive amid rising global uncertainty and shifting investment trends? In the latest edition of Real FDI, WAIPA CEO Mr. Ismail Ersahin shares exclusive insights on how IPAs can navigate the evolving FDI landscape -from sustainability and digitalization to nearshoring and new regulatory realities. 🌍 Discover how WAIPA is equipping its members to lead in an era defined by transformation, fragmentation, and opportunity. 📖 Read the full FDI CEO Outlook feature → https://lnkd.in/eEfGFy3B

Following the impactful opening, the first panel discussion at our Eastern European Meeting & International PPP Summit in Nicosia, Cyprus continued with an insightful panel: "Why is FDI Important for Economic Development, and How Can PPPs Contribute?"— expertly moderated by WAIPA’s Chief Expert, José Henrique Vieira Martins.   🎯 Our distinguished speakers shared practical strategies and innovative insights into maximizing the potential of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) and the important role of Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs):   🎤Edward Farquharson, Senior Adviser, European Investment Bank (EIB) 🎤EMMANUEL NOUTARY, General Manager, ANIMA Investment Network 🎤Thibaut Mourgues, Managing Partner, Camden Advisory & Head of AI & Technology, WAPPP | World Association of PPP Units & Professionals   🌟 Key Highlights from the Session:   ✅ Unlocking Global Capital Through PPPs PPPs effectively mobilize international capital, expertise, and resources, overcoming local financing gaps and significantly enhancing the attractiveness and bankability of investment projects.   ✅ IPAs as Bridges for Strong Investor Relationships Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) play an essential role in facilitating structured, meaningful dialogue between governments and investors. Such dialogues build trust, align investor expectations, and foster environments where sustainable investment thrives.   ✅ Next-Generation PPPs Driven by AI & Technology Artificial Intelligence is reshaping PPP project design and management, especially in infrastructure, healthcare, and smart-city sectors. AI-driven PPPs enhance transparency, improve efficiency, reduce risks, and dramatically boost investor confidence and project appeal.   This dynamic discussion reinforced WAIPA’s core mission: IPAs, when equipped with knowledge, strategic tools, and collaboration strategies, become powerful catalysts for sustainable investment, economic resilience, and global prosperity.

An impactful first day in Nicosia, Cyprus at our Eastern European Regional Meeting & International PPP Summit, which brought together visionary leaders dedicated to driving investment, sustainable growth, and regional prosperity. 📸Leading the way behind this meaningful collaboration: 🔹 Ismail Ersahin, Executive Director & CEO, WAIPA 🔹 Ziad-Alexandre Hayek, President, WAPPP | World Association of PPP Units & Professionals 🔹 Marios Tannousis, CEO, Invest Cyprus - CIPA and WAIPA’s Regional Director for Eastern Europe Special appreciation goes to our Steering Committee member and Regional Director, Mr. Marios Tannousis, CEO of Invest Cyprus - CIPA whose vision, leadership, and dedication have brought this important event to life and reinforced Eastern Europe’s potential as a vibrant region for impactful investments. 🎯 Key topics explored today include: - The Importance of PPPs and FDI: Global Challenges, Trends and Direction - PPPs are Key for Economic Growth: Is Cyprus Utilizing this Opportunity? - What are PPPs and Why are They Important for Economic Development? - Why is FDI Important for Economic Development and How Can PPPs Contribute to it? At WAIPA, we are committed to expanding these strategic regional dialogues, empowering Investment Promotion Agencies, and creating powerful global partnerships that unlock sustainable investment opportunities for lasting economic prosperity.

📢 Happening Now The International Summit: Unlocking Investment Through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) officially kicked off this morning in vibrant Nicosia, Cyprus! Our Executive Director & CEO, Ismail Ersahin, joined Evgenios Evgeniou, Chairman of Invest Cyprus - CIPA, WAIPA’s Regional Director for Eastern Europe, and Ziad-Alexandre Hayek, President of WAPPP | World Association of PPP Units & Professionals, in delivering the official welcome address, emphasizing the crucial role of PPPs in driving sustainable economic growth. Highlighting WAIPA's vision, Mr. Ersahin noted: "Empowering IPAs is essential—not just to attract investment, but to transform opportunities into bankable projects. When IPAs closely collaborate with relevant authorities, we unlock projects that drive lasting growth, attract meaningful FDI, and create sustainable prosperity." Over the next two days, WAIPA will lead important conversations on how IPAs can effectively harness the potential of PPPs, fostering deeper international collaboration and unlocking fresh investment opportunities. We extend special thanks to our Steering Committee member and regional diretor for Eastern Europe Invest Cyprus - CIPA and WAPPP | World Association of PPP Units & Professionals for their outstanding efforts in hosting this significant gathering and facilitating powerful dialogues between IPAs, investors, and policymakers. Stay tuned for further updates and key insights from the summit as we explore how PPPs can shape a thriving investment environment across regions.

WAIPA Eastern Europe Regional Meeting & the International Summit: Unlocking Investment Through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)   📍 Nicosia, Cyprus | 📅 26-27 March 2025 Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) play a pivotal role in unlocking investment, fostering economic growth, and driving sustainable development. That’s why WAIPA's Regional Director for Eastern Europe, Invest Cyprus - CIPA, WAIPA, and WAPPP | World Association of PPP Units & Professionals are bringing together global leaders, policymakers, and investment professionals to explore how PPPs can be leveraged to attract and facilitate Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and drive economic growth.   📢 What to expect: - Insights from global investment and PPP leaders - Case studies on successful FDI projects and best practices - Legal frameworks & strategies for structuring PPPs - A high-level workshop on creating investment-ready projects - Discussions on digital transformation, green finance, and AI in investment     WAIPA will actively contribute to this dialogue through two key sessions:   Welcome address 🔹Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic of Cyprus* 🔹Ismail Ersahin, Executive Director & CEO, WAIPA 🔹Ziad-Alexandre Hayek, President, WAPPP | World Association of PPP Units & Professionals 🔹Evgenios Evgeniou, Chairman, Invest Cyprus - CIPA   Why is FDI Important for Economic Development and How Can PPPs Contribute to it? 🔹 Edward Farquharson, Senior Adviser, European Investment Bank (EIB) 🔹 Thibaut Mourgues, Managing Partner, Camden Advisory, Head of AI & Technology, WAPPP | World Association of PPP Units & Professionals 🔹 EMMANUEL NOUTARY, General Manager, ANIMA Investment Network 🎤 Moderated by: 🔹 José Henrique Vieira Martins, Chief Expert, WAIPA   Stay tuned for updates and insights from the event. 🔗 More details on the International Summit and how to join here: https://lnkd.in/dPDFGQNt

This week at MIPIM 2025 in Cannes, our Executive Director & CEO, Ismail Ersahin, joined an esteemed panel to discuss the critical role of IPAs in driving sustainable urban development across Africa.   As African cities undergo rapid urbanization, the challenge lies in aligning sustainability goals with investor expectations. This session brought together key leaders to explore how sustainable innovation, investment strategies, and policy frameworks can help shape the future of Africa’s real estate market.   "Sustainability is no longer just an aspiration — it’s a requirement for investment. IPAs play a crucial role in connecting projects with the right investors, ensuring they are bankable, climate-resilient, and meet global sustainability standards. By advocating for de-risking policies and fostering partnerships, IPAs help turn sustainability goals into investment opportunities," highlighted Mr. Ersahin.   Moderated by Patricia Rodrigues Control Risks, the panel featured:  🔹Eng Khaled Abbas – Administrative Capital For Urban Development - ACUD 🔹David Damiba – Kasada Capital Management 🔹Ismail Ersahin – WAIPA 🔹Somaya Joshua – Absa Corporate and Investment Banking 🔹Samuel Kariuki – Mi Vida Homes Thika Road Limited 🔹Nawale SAOUD 💡🏗️🌍 – JLL | Morocco Green Building Council   The engaging discussion covered everything from financing mechanisms to public-private partnerships, offering actionable insights on how to ensure Africa’s real estate boom is both sustainable and ready for investment.   WAIPA continues to equip IPAs with the tools and insights they need to bridge the gap between sustainability goals and investor needs, paving the way for a future where sustainable investment in Africa thrives.

WAIPA hosted its first-ever Partner Conference at MIPIM 2025, bringing together industry leaders to explore "Real Estate & Foreign Direct Investment: A Two-Way Opportunity."   WAIPA Executive Director & CEO, Ismail Ersahin, was joined by distinguished speakers including James Zhan, Chairman of the Executive Board of the World Investment Conference; Aida Feriz, Executive Director of WIMMER FAMILY OFFICE LTD; Arnar Guðmundsson, Head of Invest in Iceland; and Wojciech Tyborowski, Director of Invest in Pomerania. The session, moderated by Courtney Fingar, Senior Advisor at WAIPA, offered valuable insights on the intersection of real estate and FDI.   Key takeaways from the session included: - Real estate is a major catalyst for foreign direct investment (FDI) and economic development. Attracting investment into real assets significantly enhances a location’s overall investment attractiveness. - Investment promotion agencies (IPAs) play a critical role in this paradigm, but many investors remain unaware of the support IPAs can offer, underscoring the need for greater awareness. - IPAs must become fluent in engaging with institutional and financial investors to maximize their impact.   Mr. Ismail Ersahin's opening remarks set the tone for an engaging discussion on the growing role of IPAs in driving sustainable real estate investment. He highlighted the strategic importance of IPAs in connecting international capital with local opportunities, ensuring transparency, and fostering sustainable economic development.   Dr. James Zhan explored the connection between real estate and FDI, emphasizing how the availability and suitability of real estate can significantly influence FDI attraction. He underscored the growing importance of integrated real estate development in building investor confidence.   Ms. Aida Feriz discussed the evolving appeal of real estate as an asset class for family offices. She highlighted how family offices are increasingly seeking diversified, sustainable investments that offer long-term returns.   Mr. Arnar Guðmundsson and Wojciech Tyborowski shared insights into the role of real estate attract FDI and meet economic development goals. They emphasized the importance of close collaboration with the real estate community to ensure investments align with broader regional development strategies.   This groundbreaking conversation at MIPIM marks the beginning of a broader effort to empower IPAs to facilitate and drive sustainable investment in real estate globally.