Country Specific Information

Overview

European Commission (EU)

The U.S. has been exploring potential forums for expanding aviation opportunities beyond those available through the traditional system of bilateral agreements. Although EU Commission does not have full negotiating authority from the member states, we are continuing to hold informal, staff-level exploratory discussions with their transportation officials in anticipation of eventual Commission "competence" in international air transportation.

United States and Africa

In 1997, the Department launched the African Aviation Initiative to stimulate the dormant aviation relations between the U.S. and Africa. Concurrently with the economic initiative, but on a separate track, the Safe Skies for Africa Initiative was developed to assist African countries in improving air safety, security and air navigation. In November 1999, Tanzania initialed the first Open-Skies agreement between the U.S. and an African country, followed quickly in 2000 by Namibia, Burkina Faso, Ghana, The Gambia, Nigeria, Morocco, Rwanda, Benin, and Senegal. Cape Verde and Uganda signed on in 2002. Talks continue to be held with other countries that express interest in Open Skies. For further information, contact the Office of International Aviation.