BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Barbados has signed an air services agreement (ASA0 with Qatar, saying it is part of a broader initiative by Bridgetown to promote more excellent regional air connectivity in the Caribbean while expanding international cooperation and diplomatic ties in the Middle East.
The agreement was signed in Doha, Qatar, over the last weekend by the Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, and the President of the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority, Mohamed Faleh Alhajri.
“This ASA marks an important step towards deepening ties between Barbados and Qatar, setting the foundation for enhanced collaboration in the aviation sector and creating new opportunities to explore air connectivity between our regions,” said Gooding-Edghill.
He also noted that Qatar is home to one of the world’s busiest airports and largest airlines and is known internationally for its sophisticated aviation technology.
The ASA gives designated airlines from both countries the flexibility to operate without directional or geographical limitations. In addition, the signing will assist in enhancing the relationship between Barbados and Qatar. It will facilitate greater cooperation in several areas, including tourism, capacity-building, opportunities in education, and scholarships. It will also serve as a means of broadening the scope of engagement and pursuing opportunities for increased trade and investment.
Qatar Airways is a state-owned carrier and a member of the One World Alliance, which includes legacy carriers American Airlines and British Airways.
Qatar Airways operates in destinations across Africa, Central Asia, the Middle East, North America, and South America and has extensive code-sharing agreements in place. These agreements would benefit travelers and participating airports by making transfers for long-haul travel more efficient.
The Barbados delegation, led by Minister Gooding-Edghill, will also explore opportunities for technical assistance and capacity-building in civil aviation with Qatar.
Barbados and Qatar established diplomatic relations on December 4, 2007.
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