(MENAFN) South Africa has successfully secured a spot on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Governing Council for another term, the Department of Transport confirmed on Sunday.

ICAO, a United Nations agency, plays a pivotal role in standardizing international air navigation practices and advancing the global aviation sector, ensuring its safe and orderly development.

The re-election occurred on Saturday at ICAO's ongoing 42nd General Assembly in Montreal, Canada. South Africa earned its position in Part II of the council, a category that grants enhanced representation at global aviation discussions.

In a statement, South Africa's Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, expressed pride in the outcome, stating, "This reaffirms the mandate that South Africa has held since 2003 and demonstrates the confidence of member states in the Republic and its ongoing contribution in shaping the global aviation agenda."

She further emphasized the significance of the re-election, stating, "The re-election also reaffirms South Africa's instrumental role in advancing ICAO's agenda on safety, security, sustainability, and environmental matters, while ensuring that the African continent's priorities remain firmly on the global stage."

Minister Creecy also credited the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), the African Union's specialized aviation body, for playing a key role in advancing Africa's aviation interests on the world stage. Alongside South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria were also chosen for Part II of the council.

The ICAO 42nd General Assembly, under the theme "Safe Skies, Sustainable Future," will run until October 3, gathering representatives from all 193 member states. Discussions during the assembly will focus on global aviation policy, council elections, and reviews of ICAO’s work across technical, legal, and environmental spheres.

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