The Government of Canada has announced a major expansion of its Air Transport Agreement with Senegal, paving the way for enhanced travel, trade, and tourism between the two nations. The newly expanded agreement, which allows immediate implementation, introduces increased flight capacity, direct connectivity, and greater flexibility for airlines, benefiting travelers, businesses, and cargo operators.
More Direct Flight Options Between Canada and Senegal
Under the updated Canada-Senegal Air Transport Agreement, airlines from both nations now have the right to operate direct flights to any destination within each other’s territory. This expansion will:
- Increase flight frequency to 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights for airlines of each country.
- Enhance flexibility for all-cargo services, supporting trade expansion.
- Provide greater convenience for passengers and businesses looking to strengthen connections between North America and West Africa.
Boosting Tourism and Business Ties
This expansion is expected to significantly strengthen Canada-Senegal relations, driving tourism growth and new commercial opportunities. With Senegal’s emerging economy and Canada’s expanding global trade presence, the agreement is a major step toward deepening bilateral cooperation.
The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, emphasized the importance of strengthening direct air links to foster economic and cultural exchange between the two nations.
“By allowing direct flights between our two countries, this agreement will significantly strengthen our bilateral relations with Senegal. It paves the way to new opportunities in a growing market, which is great news for Canadian businesses and travelers.”
Part of Canada’s Africa Strategy
The expanded air transport agreement aligns with Canada’s first global Africa Strategy, which seeks to enhance trade, mobility, and business ties across the continent.
The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, highlighted the agreement’s long-term benefits:
“This expansion marks a significant milestone, boosting tourism, airline operations, and people-to-people connections. It also strengthens Canada’s commitment to helping exporters access African markets and fosters deeper economic engagement across the region.”
Growing Trade Between Canada and Senegal
The Canada-Senegal trade relationship continues to show strong growth potential. In 2023, trade between the two countries reached approximately $119.4 million, with Canada exporting $112.3 million worth of goods to Senegal and importing $7.1 million in products. Key sectors expected to benefit from the expanded agreement include:
- Mining and natural resources
- Agriculture and food exports
- Oil and gas industries
- Clean energy and sustainability initiatives
- Digital and technology services
Supporting Sustainable and Competitive Air Transport
Canada’s Blue Sky Policy, which promotes long-term, sustainable air travel competition, is driving the expansion of international air services. Canada currently has air transport agreements with over 125 countries, ensuring greater connectivity and economic opportunities.
The Government of Canada remains committed to negotiating new and expanded agreements that improve access to global markets, create travel opportunities, and boost trade efficiency.
The post North America to West Africa: Canada’s New Air Agreement with Senegal Paves the Way for More Tourists and Trade appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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