The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), concluded its participation in the 42nd General Assembly of the UN International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), held in Montreal, Canada, from September 23 to October 3.
The delegation’s participation resulted in the signing of 17 air transport agreements and memoranda of understanding and held 40 bilateral meetings to boost international cooperation in aviation.
These efforts underline the Kingdom’s commitment to expanding its global presence in air transport, establishing regulatory frameworks for air traffic, enhancing aviation safety and security standards, and broadening travel options for passengers, SPA reported.
Additionally, the Kingdom submitted 31 working papers covering a wide range of topics aligned with its leading role in civil aviation and air transport facilitation at both regional and international levels.
These papers addressed aviation safety and security, airport infrastructure development, passenger transport facilitation, sustainability initiatives, environmental stewardship, carbon emissions reduction, and investment in biofuels and clean technologies, all in line with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub.
The ICAO Executive Council has renewed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s membership for the 2026–2028 term. The Kingdom received 175 out of 184 votes, maintaining its uninterrupted membership since 1986.
Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh Al-Jasser announced a $1 million donation from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to support the ICAO.
The contribution is dedicated to advancing the strategic objectives of the “No Country Left Behind” initiative during the 2025–2028 cycle, which aims to assist developing countries in implementing international standards and recommended practices to enhance civil aviation safety and security.
ICAO also honored Saudi Arabia, represented by Chairman of the Cooperative Aviation Security Program–Middle East (CASP-MID) Mohammed Alfozan, in recognition of his leadership and management of the program and his contributions to enhancing the aviation security capabilities of countries in the region.
The recognition reflects the Kingdom’s pioneering role in supporting ICAO programs and global initiatives to strengthen civil aviation security and its commitment to ensuring that “no country is left behind.”
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia hosted a reception attended by more than 450 participants from various countries, including representatives from the aviation sector, diplomats, and ICAO member states.
The event featured an exhibition showcasing participating entities, traditional handicrafts such as weaving and leatherwork, and performances of Saudi folk music and dance.
A documentary film was also screened, tracing the history and development of civil aviation in the Kingdom and its progress toward becoming a modern aviation powerhouse.
