OTTAWA — Canada and Mongolia have expanded their bilateral air transport agreement, paving the way for direct flights between the two countries for the first time.

Announced by Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, the updated agreement is designed to strengthen connectivity, support trade diversification, boost tourism and improve transportation links between Canada and the emerging Asian market.

“Mongolia is an emerging market and I’m pleased to see this expanded air transport agreement, which will unlock exciting new opportunities for travellers and businesses in both our countries,” said MacKinnon.

Under the expanded agreement, airlines from each country will be permitted to operate up to three weekly passenger-combination flights. The agreement also provides for unlimited weekly all-cargo services and grants open fifth freedom rights for cargo operations, allowing airlines to operate flights between two foreign countries provided the service either originates or terminates in the carrier’s home country.

The original Canada-Mongolia Air Transport Agreement was signed in 2018. According to the federal government, this marks the first expansion of the agreement.

The Government of Canada said it continues to pursue new and expanded air transport agreements to improve international connectivity and increase options for both travellers and cargo shippers. Canada currently has air transport agreements or arrangements covering more than 125 countries.