Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is set to play a pivotal role at the upcoming BRICS Business Council Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Moscow, Russia, from October 17 to 20, 2024. The meeting, themed “The BRICS Partnership: Strengthening Multilateralism for Equitable Global Development and Security,” aims to deepen trade relations among member states and bolster the bloc’s influence in global investment and geopolitical affairs.
ACSA’s participation will be led by CEO Ms. Mpumi Mpofu, who serves as the Chairperson of the BRICS Aviation Working Group. This delegation is tasked with promoting South Africa’s aviation sector while enhancing cooperation among BRICS countries. The agenda includes engaging with key authorities to discuss the primary objectives of the Aviation Working Group, focusing on improving air connectivity between member states.
Enhancing Aviation Collaboration
A significant aspect of the Aviation Working Group’s mission is to strengthen various elements of the aviation value chain. This includes airport infrastructure, aircraft manufacturing, servicing, technical training, and related industries. ACSA’s delegation will advocate for the establishment of a Multilateral Air Service Agreement (MASA), which is anticipated to serve as a catalyst for increased tourism, trade, and investment among BRICS nations.
The AGM will kick off with a series of Working Group meetings, including discussions in the Transport and Logistics Working Group, which will set the stage for collaborative initiatives in the aviation sector.
Key Addresses and Future Goals
On the opening day of the meeting, delegates will hear from prominent figures including Mr. Sergey Katyrin, Chairman of the BRICS Council and President of the Russian Federation’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce, as well as Russian Minister of Industry and Trade, Mr. Anton Alikhanov. Their addresses are expected to provide insight into the overarching goals of the BRICS partnership and the importance of robust transport links in achieving these aims.
As ACSA prepares to advocate for improved air connectivity, the organization remains committed to positioning South Africa as a significant player in the regional and global aviation landscape.