Ouagadougou: On the occasion of International Civil Aviation Day celebrated on December 7, the Minister of State, Minister of Territorial Administration and Mobility, Emile Zerbo, called for increased solidarity between States and a collective commitment for the equitable development of global air transport.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Zerbo emphasized the need for active cooperation among Northern and Southern states to ensure the inclusive development of global air transport. He highlighted the theme for the 2025 edition, "Working together so that no country is left behind," as particularly relevant in the current global context.
The Minister stressed the importance of shared responsibility among governments, regional and international institutions, operators, and technical partners to reduce disparities in compliance with ICAO standards. During the 42nd session of the ICAO Assembly, the Burkinabe delegation, led by Zerbo, reaffirmed Burkina Faso's commitment to a safer, sustainable, and inclusive civil aviation sector. The delegation emphasized the strategic role of air transport in national development and regional integration.
Acknowledging the challenges such as low modal share, budgetary constraints, and structural vulnerabilities, Zerbo called for enhanced international cooperation focused on three key priorities: skills development and specialist training; strengthening technical and regulatory capacities; and access to sustainable aviation fuels and technologies suited to local realities.
ICAO is encouraged to continue its efforts to foster synergies between states, reduce inequalities, and ensure inclusive participation in global air transport development. Zerbo praised progress made through regional technical cooperation, noting that Ouagadougou International Airport has been certified twice with WAEMU support, and the certification of Bobo-Dioulasso International Airport is nearing completion.
In line with this spirit of cooperation, the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) is working towards an integrated airspace with initiatives in search and rescue, shared training, and safety standards harmonization. A key project is the establishment of a leading aeronautical training center in Ouagadougou to enhance skills for professionals in the region.
Zerbo concluded by urging public institutions, regional and international organizations, and stakeholders to commit to promoting safer and more secure civil aviation globally, marking the celebration of International Civil Aviation Day with a renewed pledge towards these goals.