On the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow, the Government of Senegal and Emirates Group yesterday announced a joint agreement paving the way for Emirates to support Senegal Airlines. The Government of Senegal recently announced it has launched a new carrier – Senegal Airlines – scheduled to begin operations in 2010.

Following a high-level meeting between His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group and His Excellency Karim Wade, Senior Minister, Ministry of International Cooperation, National Planning, Air Transport and Infrastructure, Senegal, it was agreed the Emirates Group will assist the Senegalese carrier in the start-up and post launch phases.

Mr Wade commented: “Senegal is strengthening its aviation industry and is building a new international airport called the Blaise Diagne Airport. The new, technologically-advanced airport combined with a brand-new, modern airline will make Senegal a major aviation force in Africa as well as internationally. We are pleased Emirates has agreed to share its knowledge, expertise and experience and support us in establishing Senegal Airlines.”

Sheikh Ahmed noted: “Emirates has a strategic interest in Africa and currently operates to 17 points within the continent. I am pleased to note the UAE and Senegal have been collaborating on many fronts.”

From its base in Dubai, Emirates flies on a daily schedule to Malta with a stopover in Larnaca, Cyprus.