No. H 216/08
For release - September 5, 2008
OTTAWA - The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities and the Honourable Michael M Fortier, Minister of International Trade, today announced the conclusion of a new Blue Skies bilateral air transport agreement with the Dominican Republic.
The agreement allows airlines of both countries to serve any cities in both Canada and the Dominican Republic with their own aircraft and code-sharing services, for both passenger and all-cargo flights. Air carriers can freely decide the frequency of services and prices to be offered.
"This agreement is another step forward in the implementation of this government's Blue Sky international air transportation policy which was put in place to open air transport markets," said Minister Cannon. "It will be beneficial for travellers and shippers, airports and airlines of both countries."
The Dominican Republic is one of Canada's largest air travel markets and an important tourism destination for Canadians. In conjunction with flights between the two countries, services may also be offered to and from third countries.
"This agreement is part of our ongoing efforts to deepen our engagement in the Americas and will facilitate growth in trade, investment and tourism for Canadian business," said Minister Fortier. "Canadian travellers will also benefit from the strong safety and security provisions as well as the increased flexibility in flight availability."
Canada is also engaged in bilateral free trade agreement negotiations with the Dominican Republic. In 2007, bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and the Dominican Republic totalled $311 million, with Canadian exports accounting for $198 million and imports totalling $113 million. From 2006 to 2007, Canadian merchandise exports to the Dominican Republic increased 21 per cent.
The new rights are likely to result in a greater range of travel options for passengers and businesses. Airlines are currently reviewing the new agreement to determine what new services may be offered.
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