Greece – Mongolia Air Services Deal to Boost Connectivity

Photo source: MIAT Mongolian Airlines

Greek parliament ratified this week an air services agreement between Greece and Mongolia aimed at strengthening air connectivity and tourism between the two countries.

The agreement was signed last year by Greek Transport Minister Christos Staikouras and his Mongolian counterpart, Byambatsogt Sandag, paving the way for mutually beneficial collaborations in air transportation and new opportunities for consumers and businesses in the industry.

Addressing parliament, Deputy Transport Minister Christina Alexopoulou said the agreement opened up the market enabling healthy competition that will facilitate the launch of direct flights between the two nations.

“Serving as a gateway to the European Union for flights originating from Asia and with its expansion into markets like Mongolia, Greece is providing impetus to its commercial activities and further enhancing its tourism product,” said Alexopoulou.

Deputy Transport Minister Christina Alexopoulou. Photo source: Transport Ministry

The minister went on to add that Mongolia was connected to the EU through a strategic partnership agreement and that it currently cooperates with NATO. The accord between Greece and Mongolia will contribute to building mutually beneficial collaborations in other sectors as well, she said.

Last year, Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni met with Mongolian Ambassador to Greece, Lkhagvasuren Sayanaa, with whom she discussed working together to expand and strengthen tourism relations between the two countries.

Lastly, Alexopoulou said that high safety standards stipulated by Greek and European legislation also apply to Mongolian airlines serving Greece.

“Today’s agreement,” said the minister, “will upgrade relations between the two countries, particularly enhancing tourism and commercial activities. New destinations and prospects are opening up for Greek businesses and consumers. We are fostering bilateral relations in the transportation sector, positioning Greece as an upgraded hub towards Europe, Africa, and Arab countries.”