Government of Senegal and the Emirates Group join hands
18-Nov-2009 On the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow, the Government of Senegal and Emirates Group today announced a joint agreement paving the way for Emirates to support Senegal Airlines.
The Government of Senegal recently announced it has launched a new carrier - Senegal Airlines - scheduled to begin operations in 2010. The Senegalese private sector has a majority equity participation in the new airline.
Following a high-level meeting between His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group and His Excellency Karim Wade, Senior Minister, Ministry of International Cooperation, National Planning, Air Transport and Infrastructure, Senegal, it was agreed the Emirates Group will assist the Senegalese carrier in the start-up and post launch phases. The agreement will cover commercial support, technical expertise, training and aviation-related goods and services.
Mr. Wade commented: "Senegal is strengthening its aviation industry and is building a new international airport called the Blaise Diagne Airport. The new, technologically-advanced airport combined with a brand-new, modern airline will make Senegal a major aviation force in Africa as well as internationally.
"Emirates is a world-leading company known for its innovation and superior product and service. We are pleased Emirates has agreed to share its knowledge, expertise and experience and support us in establishing Senegal Airlines."
Sheikh Ahmed noted: "Emirates has a strategic interest in Africa and currently operates to 17 points within the continent. The Senegalese government approached us to support the start-up of their new carrier and participate in its future, and we are delighted to add value to the aviation infrastructure of Senegal."
"I am pleased to note the UAE and Senegal have been collaborating on many fronts. Recently DP World was awarded the concession to develop and operate the existing container terminal at Dakar, Terminal à Conteneur, and invest in a new container terminal at the port, Port du Futur. In addition, the Jebel Ali Free Zone is developing a special economic free zone connected to Senegal's Blaise Diagne Airport. I am confident these recent associations will strengthen the links our two countries share."
The agreement between the Emirates Group and the Government of Senegal comes into effect immediately and is long term.