Emirates Sky Cargo, the cargo division of the world's largest international airline, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Astral Airlines, the leading African cargo carrier, to explore new opportunities to strengthen global trade to Africa. did.
Astral Aviation operates an extensive intra-Africa network and offers 50 destinations through planned ad hoc charter services. Combined with the vast global network of Emirates Skycargo, a fleet that includes both over 145 destinations and passenger aircraft, the collaboration highlights Africa's growing role in global commerce. Both airlines have extensive expertise in handling delicate cargo, such as fresh produce and pharmaceuticals, which are essential commodities for trade in the region.
Expanding connectivity and trade opportunities
The deal was officially made in Air Cargo Africa by Badr Abbas, Senior Vice President of Emirates Skycargo, and Sanjiev Gadia, CEO of Astral Aviation Limited. As part of the MOU, the two airlines will work together on initiatives such as expanding freight interline options and blocking space agreements to improve connectivity and increase market access for African companies.
Badr Abbas highlighted the potential for partnerships, saying, “Coupled with 11 of the 20 most rapidly growing economies and bold trade ambitions, Africa has great growth potential. , considering the width of all wide body fleets, specialized product portfolio, it is suitable to support business to new suppliers and customers in every corner of the world. This partnership with Astral Aviation has been a long-standing experience in the market Builds commitment to create mutually beneficial economic opportunities to keep products fast, reliably and efficiently.”
Sanjeev Gadhia added: “Today, we are serving a crucial step in our over 15 years of commercial partnership, reflecting our shared vision to enhance air cargo solutions from and within and within Africa. Together, we Unlock new opportunities, drive innovation and strengthen global trade connectivity.”
Strengthen economic ties between the United Arab Emirates and Africa
Economic ties between the United Arab Emirates and Africa continue to expand, with the UAE ranking being the largest investor in the GCC and the fourth largest global investor in Africa. Recently, the United Arab Emirates and Kenya have been compiled in a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) aimed at accelerating trade and investment across key sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, financial services and renewable energy. ) has been signed. The partnership between Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Airlines, in line with these efforts, will promote trade growth and support the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA).
Decades of commitment to Africa
Emirates Sky Cargo began its African business in April 1986 on its first flight to Cairo, Egypt. For almost 40 years, the airline has expanded its footprint across the continent, and now has 172 passenger flights expanding seven dedicated cargo ships to 20 African destinations, along with bellyhold capacity.
With global hubs in Nairobi, Johannesburg, Liege and Dubai, Astral Airlines has been a key player in African airlines for 24 years, providing cost-effective and reliable cargo solutions across the continent .
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