In a significant step toward enhancing bilateral aviation cooperation, Morocco and The Gambia signed an air transport agreement on Tuesday during the 42nd session of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly in Montreal, Canada. The agreement, signed at ICAO headquarters, aims to modernize the legal framework governing civil aviation relations between the two nations, fostering stronger ties and aligning with broader African aviation goals.
The signing ceremony featured Morocco’s ambassador to Canada, Souriya Otmani, and The Gambia’s Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah. The agreement is a milestone in implementing the Yamoussoukro Declaration, which promotes the liberalization of air transport markets across Africa. It supports the African Union’s Agenda 2063, a blueprint for the continent’s development. It underscores both countries’ commitment to upholding the highest safety standards, collaborating to combat illicit activities in aviation, and establishing effective dispute resolution mechanisms through consultation or arbitration.
“This agreement marks an important step in strengthening the excellent relations between Morocco and The Gambia,” Minister Sillah said. He emphasized that the accord reflects a shared dedication to advancing ICAO’s objectives, which include fostering safe, secure, and sustainable global aviation systems. The agreement is expected to facilitate enhanced air connectivity, promote economic cooperation, and support the growth of air travel and trade between the two nations.
The ICAO Assembly, convened every three years by the organization’s governing Council, is ICAO’s sovereign body, bringing together its 193 Member States and numerous international organizations. The Assembly sets the global aviation policy for the upcoming triennium, reviewing ICAO’s comprehensive work program in technical, economic, legal, and technical cooperation fields. This year’s session provided a fitting backdrop for the Morocco-Gambia agreement, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in shaping the future of aviation.
By aligning with ICAO’s mission and African aviation initiatives, the agreement positions Morocco and The Gambia to contribute to a more integrated and efficient African air transport network. It also signals their commitment to fostering economic growth and connectivity while adhering to global aviation standards.
As both nations move forward, this agreement is poised to serve as a foundation for deeper cooperation, potentially paving the way for increased air travel, tourism, and trade, benefiting their economies and reinforcing their partnership on the global stage.
