This agreement came about thanks to the exclusive efforts of Mr. Erwin De Weerdt, President of Euracen, the Chamber of Commerce Europe-Central America. Working closely with the Embassy of El Salvador in Brussels, he was able to convince Director Todd Hildreth and ASL Airlines of the historical importance of launching direct flights (cargo and passengers) between Belgium and El Salvador in Central America.
During an extensive study tour on site last week, Todd Hildreth was able to see for himself the potential, commercial opportunities and leadership that El Salvador has to offer in terms of aviation. A field in which the country is extremely well positioned.
The deal was made official last Friday when it appeared that ASL Airlines Belgium was indeed willing to establish itself in El Salvador and open new air routes that will connect El Salvador directly with Belgium and the rest of the world.
This deal will not only increase tourism to El Salvador but undoubtedly boost mutual trade relations. In addition, the introduction of direct passenger flights would also greatly expand the in-flight opportunities for the diaspora in several countries of Europe, home to the second largest community of Salvadorian nationals.
"I want to thank ASL Airlines Belgium for the confidence and firm decision to conclude this agreement which, in short, will boost economic development and translate into the revival of tourism, the airline industry and trade with Belgium and related destinations," said Ms. Adriana Mira, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic.
According to her, the agreement with ASL Airlines Belgium was part of a strategy of economic diplomacy that the current government harbors along with its network of embassies and consulates, and in this case the diplomatic representation in Belgium in particular. "President Nayib Bukele has entrusted us with the task of promoting and following productive policies and strategies at the international level, in line with the country's priorities, with the aviation sector being a priority," she added.
The signing of the said MOU will enable both sides to coordinate their efforts and exchange knowledge with a view to generating opportunities and mutual benefits. It will also contribute to the Salvadoran experience in this industry, especially now that there is a cluster specialized in aviation.
"We evaluated the conditions in this country for several months because we need a point of contact with Central and South America. After all the analyses, we made this decision, and we are convinced that El Salvador is the right place," Todd Hildreth explained ASL Airlines Belgium's decision after an extensive visit to the cargo department of "San Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez," El Salvador's international airport.
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