Will Develop The EU's Partnership With South Asia

The EU – South Asia Aviation Partnership Project officially opened its field office in the South Asia region at a ceremony hosted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) on February 25.

The EU – South Asia Aviation Partnership Project (EU-SA APP) is funded by the European Union and implemented by EASA to develop the EU's partnership with South Asia, enhance safety, and improve environmental protection and climate change action in the field of civil aviation. The South Asia region is home to a quarter of the world's population and boasts the world's highest traffic growth rate.

Mr. Upul Dhardamasa, Chairman of CAASL, and Mr. H M C Nimalsiri, Director General of CAASL, hosted the office opening ceremony in the presence of Ms. M S Mohammed, Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, and the EU Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Mr. Denis Chaibi, alongside the EASA team. During the ceremony, all parties highlighted the importance of cooperation for safety and environmental protection in aviation. CAASL expressed their appreciation for the project’s work and the continuous support by the EU. The EU ambassador highlighted in particular the importance of aviation for Sri Lanka and for the region and referred to the increasing environmental awareness of the young generation worldwide as an important driving force.

Two project activities took place to celebrate the opening of the office. First, the 5th SARI-EASA-CAASL Aircrew Regulation Development Workshop (the South Asia Regional Initiative, better known as SARI, is a grouping of authorities from South Asia founded in 2007). And second, a workshop on environmental matters for aeroplane operators as a continuation of the project’s efforts to help the South Asia region implement environmental policies, and especially CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation).

(Image provided with EASA news release)

FMI: www.easa.europa.eu