DILI, 28 june 2022 (TATOLI)- Timor-Leste signs an agreement with the New Zealand Government in the field of aviation to enable flight connectivity between the two countries.
The Air Service Agreement was signed by the Minister of Transport and Communications of Timor-Leste, José Agostinho do Carmo da Silva, and the Ambassador of New Zealand in Timor-Leste, Philip Hewitt at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office, Dili, today.
New Zealand’s Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Philip Hewitt, said the agreement was aimed at strengthening relations between the two countries and also facilitating the journey of New Zealand investors who wish to invest in Timor-Leste.
“This agreement will develop connectivity between New Zealand and Timor-Leste in the field of aviation and also improve the tourism sector, with the operation of new flights from NZ, many tourists from New Zealand will visit Timor-Leste and contribute to the country’s economy,” said Ambassador Hewitt.
At the same place the Minister of Transportation and Communication (MTC), José Agostinho da Silva said, the signing of the Air Service Agreement is very important because it will pave the way for citizens of both countries to develop economic activities.
“This is a long-term deal. I hope it will facilitate regular commercial flights and help the economy grow through tourist arrivals,” said Minister da Silva.
He acknowledged Timor-Leste has air connectivity issues, as it only has regular air service agreements with Indonesia, Singapore, and Australia.
He said MTK and MNEK would submit the agreement to the Council of Ministers and the Parliament for approval and ratification, before starting its implementation.
Minister José also informed that after ratifying the agreement, the Government of Timor-Leste would notify the International Organization of Civil Aviation (ICAO).
He explained that currently, a team from the Ministry of Transportation and Communication is conducting data collection for Dili International Airport.
“I hope that in December this year, the government will sign a contract with a company that is interested in extending the runway from 1,800 meters to 2,500 meters,” he said.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor : Nelia B
