Zambia signs Air Services Agreement with Luxembourg

The Zambian Government has signed Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with the Government of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Representing the Government was Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Zambia to Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg and The European Union, Grace Mutale Kabwe, while Government of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg was represented by Minister of Sustainable Development and Infrastructure, François Bausch.

Acoording to a statement released by First Secretary Press & Public Relations at the Zambian Embassy, Lambwe Kacha;i, The Agreement provides a legal framework for the establishment of a direct Cargo airline between Luxembourg and Zambia.

Ambassador Kabwe expressed satisfaction that the establishment of the air route will promote trade between the two nations. She said to cope with the long term traffic demand and maintain competiveness as an aviation hub, the Zambia government is currently working on the expansion of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and upgrade its runway system.

“In this regard, I wish to take this opportunity to confirm that the Zambian Aeronautical Authority has accepted the designation by the Aeronautical Authority of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Martin Air, a Luxembourg registered Cargo Airline on the Luxembourg – Lusaka vice versa route while awaiting the designation of a passenger Airline,” she said.

The Zambian envoy said the establishment of Air services will definitely promote business not only between Zambia and Luxembourg, but also between Europe and Southern Africa.

“As you are aware, Zambia has over the years continued to record strong economic growth in many sectors, including the horticulture industry, which will benefit from the direct air link as its products will be exported and distributed in Europe through Luxembourg efficiently; thereby boosting volumes of trade. Furthermore, Zambia as home of the Victoria Falls, offers a wider variety of tourist attractions,” said Ambassador Kabwe. “So far, Zambia is regarded as the millennium tourist and investment destination in Southern Africa. In view of this, as Cargo flights take off, let us work around the clock to ensure that the passenger airline is established as soon as possible to further boost trade and tourism between our two nations.”