Antigua and Barbuda’s Lower House of Parliament has ratified a bilateral Air Services Agreement (ASA) with the Republic of Rwanda, formalizing aviation ties between the two countries ahead of a potential new air link.

The agreement, initially signed in Kigali on 23 June 2022, was brought before Parliament for approval under the Ratification of Treaties Act, Cap 364. According to the legislation, treaties involving international bodies or foreign governments must be ratified by Parliament before entering into force.

The ASA lays the legal foundation for commercial air services between the two nations and is expected to facilitate direct flights between Rwanda and Antigua and Barbuda—particularly in anticipation of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, which Antigua is set to host.

“This again reflects the government’s interest in broadening our relationship with Africa,” a government minister stated while presenting the resolution. “In the case of Rwanda, discussions are ongoing for their national carrier to provide services between Africa and Antigua for next year.”

The agreement opens the door for _RwandAir Limited_ , Rwanda’s national airline, to operate routes that connect the African continent with the Eastern Caribbean. Officials believe such a development could boost tourism, trade, and diplomatic engagement between the two regions.

The resolution was passed without objection, marking another step in the government’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with African nations and diversify the country’s aviation partnerships.