Ethiopia and Republic of Congo Seal Air Transport Agreement to Boost Continental Connectivity

Addis Ababa — Ethiopia and the Republic of Congo have formalized an air transport agreement today, promising to enhance aviation links and economic ties between the two nations. The agreement was signed by Ethiopian Transport and Logistics Minister Alemu Sime and his Congolese counterpart, Minister of Transport, Civil Aviation, and Merchant Navy Honoré Sayi, in a ceremony in Addis Ababa.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the agreement is part of a broader African Union initiative under the Yamoussoukro Decision, which aims to liberalize air services across the continent. He noted that the pact would remove limitations on flight frequencies, destinations, traffic rights, and aircraft types. This move is expected to significantly strengthen economic, diplomatic, and social connections between Ethiopia and the Republic of Congo.

The agreement allows Ethiopian Airlines, which currently operates seven weekly flights to the Republic of Congo, to expand its services to Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire. This expansion is anticipated to increase the market presence of African airlines within the continental air market and boost service offerings.

Minister Alemu emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to enhancing the role of African airlines in the African air market, noting the importance of supporting air transport across the continent to ensure robust economic growth and integration.

Minister Honoré Sayi praised the agreement as a significant milestone in strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two countries. He highlighted the importance of leveraging Ethiopian Airlines’ expertise and reputation to advance the civil aviation sector not only bilaterally but across Africa. Sayi called for close collaboration between the two nations to fully realize the benefits outlined in the agreement.