Zimbabwe has opened formal negotiations for new bilateral air service agreements as it participates in the 17th International Air Services Negotiation event, currently underway in Punta Cana.
The delegation is led by Engineer Petronella Janga Makumbe, Secretary for Transport and Infrastructural Development, who said the summit offers Zimbabwe a strategic platform to strengthen aviation links and stimulate economic growth.
“We are here to expand Zimbabwe’s air connectivity and open new commercial opportunities for our aviation sector,” Eng. Makumbe said.
“Bilateral air service agreements are critical for boosting tourism, improving trade flows, and positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive player in global aviation.”
ICAN 2025, hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organization, was officially opened on November 10 by President Luis Rodolfo Abinader of the Dominican Republic. The event has drawn aviation regulators, diplomats and industry specialists from across the globe.
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In his opening address, President Abinader emphasised the importance of international collaboration in air transport. “Our global aviation future depends on cooperation, fair access and strong bilateral partnerships,” he said.
Zimbabwe has initiated negotiations with the Dominican Republic, Malaysia and Belgium, pursuing agreements that would increase passenger routes, expand cargo capacity and improve market access for airlines.
According to Eng. Makumbe, Zimbabwe’s objectives at ICAN 2025 align with the government’s broader economic agenda.
“Enhanced air services will lower freight costs, reduce travel times and attract more airlines into our market,” she said. “This will translate into more jobs, higher GDP and stronger integration with global markets.”
ICAO organisers note that agreements concluded at ICAN often help countries improve competitiveness by widening route networks, increasing flight frequencies and stimulating investment in aviation infrastructure.
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