THE 25th International Civil Aviation Negotiation Event (ICAN), which ended on Friday, saw Zimbabwe endorsing several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) in a move set to witness further liberalisation of airspace to new players.
The high-level event was held in the Dominican Republic (D.R) of Punta Cana and hosted by Junta de Aviacion Civil (JAC). ICAN is the leading global forum for ICAO Member States to conduct bilateral, regional, and plurilateral air services negotiations and consultations. These agreements aim to boost air connectivity, promote industry growth, and establish regulatory frameworks for international air transport.
Transport and Infrastructure Development Permanent Secretary Joy Makumbe (right) signing MoUs
The event facilitated negotiation meetings between delegations, business-to-business (B2B) meetings, and a high-level roundtable discussion addressing the future of international air transport.
Speaking to NewZimbabwe.com shortly after the 2025 ICAN rolled down its curtains in D.R, Transport and Infrastructure Development Ministry’s permanent Secretary, Engineer Joy Makumbe said four MoUs and three bilateral agreements were forged during the event.
“As the foremost global event for air transport negotiations, ICAN serves as the main international platform for discussing and negotiating air transport matters in line with the sector’s rapid developments. It also provides a key opportunity for countries to negotiate bilateral and multilateral air services agreements,” she said.
Makumbe said concluding air services agreements offers benefits such as increased connectivity, economic growth, and a more competitive market.
“These agreements facilitate more routes, flights, and capacity, which can lead to lower prices for air freight and faster transportation. They also support the tourism sector and boost trade and business activity, creating jobs and generating higher GDP” she added.
The event was widely attended, with officials from countries such as Nigeria and Qatar leading their respective delegations.
The next edition of the event (ICAN 2026) is scheduled to be held in Equatorial Guinea. – NewZimbabwe
