By FORTUNE ABANG

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, on Wednesday announced the commencement of Air Algerie direct flight services from Algiers to Abuja.

Tuggar in a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesperson of the ministry, said the inaugural flight is scheduled for April 6.

According to him, the historic development will mark a significant milestone in the growing diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and Algeria.

?It is pertinent to state that it is the implementation of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between both countries that culminated in this successful venture.

?The new route, operated by the Algeria?s national carrier, Algerie Air with a Boeing 737 Aircraft, will positively enhance connectivity, promote tourism and facilitate trade and investment between the two nations.

?This landmark development equally underscores the shared commitment of both countries to deepening bilateral cooperation in aviation, commerce, and people-to-people exchanges.

?The ministry commends the significant role played by the Embassy of Nigeria in Algiers for not only facilitating this noble goal but also seeing to its fruition.

?The Charge d?Affaires of the Embassy of Nigeria in Algiers, leadership of the Nigerian Community in Algeria and representative of the Algerian Government are expected to be on board during the inaugural flight.?

The ministry congratulated Air Algerie and assured of necessary support to ensure sustainability of its new service, while praying for successful inaugural flight and prosperous partnership.

?We believe this initiative will further strengthen the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and Algeria, while opening new opportunities for mutual growth.

?The affordable fare structure and proximity of Algeria to Europe would provide Nigerians convenient gateway to Europe, thereby enhancing Nigeria?s position as regional hub for business, tourism and transit.

?Nigerian government encourages citizens and business communities to take advantage of this enhanced air connectivity, which will operate twice a week, to explore trade, tourism and cultural exchanges between both countries,? Tuggar added. (NAN)

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