Asia Pacific Aviation Ministers Unanimously Adopt Delhi Declaration at Key Conference

The 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation concluded with the adoption of the Delhi Declaration. Hosted by India in collaboration with ICAO, the event saw participation from 29 countries and focused on enhancing regional cooperation and sustainable growth in the aviation sector.

The 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation concluded on Thursday, culminating in the unanimous adoption of the Delhi Declaration. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the announcement at the end of the two-day event, which saw participation from delegates of 29 countries and key international organizations, including ICAO, which celebrated its 80th anniversary.

The conference, co-hosted by India's Ministry of Civil Aviation and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) at Bharat Mandapam, gathered ministers, civil aviation authority heads, and stakeholders to tackle current challenges and opportunities within the region.

Key discussions revolved around future aviation prospects in the Asia-Pacific. The adoption of the Delhi Declaration stands as a significant milestone, aiming to bolster regional cooperation, tackle emerging challenges, and promote sustainable growth in civil aviation. Prime Minister Modi spotlighted India's advancements in aviation technology and infrastructure and emphasized inclusivity in the sector, noting a higher percentage of female pilots in the country than the global average.

Modi also proposed the creation of an 'International Buddhist Circuit' to connect significant holy sites across Asia, benefiting the sector and the economies of involved countries. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu highlighted India's ambitious objective to have 350-400 airports by 2047 and its leadership role in global aviation, exemplified during the COVID-19 pandemic.

President of the ICAO Council, Salvatore Sciacchitano, reiterated the importance of safety and security in civil aviation. The conference featured several key presentations and culminated in the formal adoption of the draft Asia Pacific Ministerial Declaration on Civil Aviation. Additionally, the event marked ICAO's 80th anniversary, celebrating its long-standing contributions to international aviation standards.

(With inputs from agencies.)