April 19, 2005 (4:20 p.m. EDT)
No. 69

CANADA AND THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA CONCLUDE

NEW BILATERAL AIR AGREEMENT

International Trade Minister Jim Peterson and Transport Minister Jean-C. Lapierre today announced the conclusion of a new and expanded bilateral air transport agreement with the People’s Republic of China.

The new agreement provides for a threefold increase in permitted passenger and cargo flights to be operated by more airlines between more city pairs and under more flexible operating conditions than under the previous agreement. The new agreement also contains strong aviation safety and security provisions.

“Expanding air services to China gives Canadians and Canadian business new doorways through which they can increase their presence in this dynamic market,” said Minister Peterson. “Canadian businesses have said they want better access to the Chinese market, and we are listening. This is a concrete example of the importance Canada places on our emerging market strategy.”

“Given the rapid growth in air travel between Canada and China, this new agreement is very timely,” said Minister Lapierre. “Canada and the People’s Republic of China can be proud of the benefits this agreement will have for the travellers, shippers and airlines of both countries.”

The new entitlements under the agreement for airline operations include possibilities for additional passenger, all-cargo and code-sharing air services by the airlines of Canada and China. The higher permitted frequency of weekly flights has been put in place to accommodate growing demand in the bilateral air travel market. The strong aviation safety and security provisions agreed to indicate the importance that both countries attach to these matters.

As a consequence of these improvements to the bilateral air transport arrangements, Air Canada, Cargojet and Harmony Airways intend to introduce new air services. Air Transat and All Canada Express have also expressed interest in serving China.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Jacqueline LaRocque
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of International Trade
(613) 992-7332

Media Relations Office
International Trade Canada
(613) 995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca

Irène Marcheterre
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Transport
(613) 991-0700 

Media Relations
Transport Canada
993-0055
http://www.tc.gc.ca