Strengthening air transport is critical to Europe’s resilience and prosperity

Strengthening air transport is critical to Europe’s resilience and prosperity

ICAO Council President’s advocacy in Romania and the Republic of Moldova focusses on critical importance of air connectivity to national and regional vitality

Strengthening air connectivity and aviation capacity is essential to Europe’s resilience, prosperity and deeper regional integration, ICAO Council President Toshiyuki Onuma stressed during a high-level mission to Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

Across engagements in both countries, President Onuma emphasized that strong international cooperation, effective institutions and globally harmonized solutions are essential to keeping aviation safe, secure and sustainable. He noted that these foundations also strengthen aviation's ability to connect people, drive economic opportunity and build resilient communities. Looking ahead to the ICAO Worldwide Air Transport Conference in November, he also called on States to actively contribute to discussions that will help define the global economic policy framework for international air transport over the next decade.

In Romania, President Onuma held high-level meetings with parliamentary leaders, including the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Mr. Sorin Grindeanu, and the Quaestor of the Senate, Mr. Marius-Alexandru Dunca. Discussions focused on strengthening Romania’s aviation system and regional connectivity, and on ensuring that a safe, secure, sustainable and resilient aviation sector continues to support economic and social development. He also delivered a keynote address at the Regional Air Transport Conference and received the 2026 Regional Air Transport Award in recognition of his contribution to international civil aviation.  

In the Republic of Moldova, President Onuma met with Prime Minister Vasile Tofan and State Secretary for Transport Mircea Păscăluță to discuss how stronger air connectivity can expand access to global markets and create opportunities for trade, investment, tourism and international engagement. Discussions also highlighted ICAO’s planned Aviation Needs Analysis for Landlocked Developing Countries, which aims to support Moldova and other landlocked developing countries in advancing sustainable aviation modernization.

The Council President also addressed the 75th Special Meeting of the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) Directors General of Civil Aviation, calling for closer cooperation, stronger information sharing and preparedness to ensure aviation remains safe, secure, sustainable and resilient amid growing demand and emerging challenges. He underscored the importance of Europe’s contribution to global progress towards ICAO’s vision of air transport for all by 2050, with zero fatalities and net-zero carbon emissions.

The Council President was accompanied throughout the mission by Mr. Nicolas Rallo, ICAO’s European and North Atlantic Regional Director. The mission took place from 21 to 27 August 2026.

27 August 2026