Parliament has approved resolutions ratifying protocols that amend the Convention on International Civil Aviation, supporting reforms aimed at expanding the governing bodies of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The resolutions were presented during Tuesday’s sitting of the House of Representatives as part of a package of international agreements brought before lawmakers for approval.
The amendments relate to changes in the composition of the ICAO Council, the organization’s principal governing body responsible for establishing international aviation standards and policies.
Government officials said the reforms are intended to improve representation within the global aviation system by increasing the number of seats on the Council to reflect the growth of international civil aviation and the expanding membership of the United Nations specialized agency.
ICAO, which was established in 1944 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada, develops the standards and recommended practices that govern international air travel, aviation safety, security, air navigation, environmental protection and airport operations.
The Council plays a central role in overseeing the implementation of those standards and ensuring cooperation among member states.
By ratifying the protocols, Antigua and Barbuda joins other member states supporting efforts to modernize the organization’s governance structure and provide broader geographic representation within its decision-making bodies.
Government officials have previously emphasized the importance of maintaining compliance with international aviation standards, particularly for small island states whose economies depend heavily on air connectivity, tourism and international trade.
The aviation sector remains a critical component of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy, with V.C. Bird International Airport serving as a major gateway for visitors and regional travel.
Lawmakers were told that participation in international aviation agreements helps ensure that Antigua and Barbuda remains aligned with global standards governing safety, security and operational efficiency.
The ICAO resolutions were among several international measures approved during the sitting. Parliament also ratified a visa exemption agreement with the United Arab Emirates, amendments to the Constitution of the International Labour Organization and agreements relating to international financial information exchange.
The treaty resolutions were approved without extended debate.
The protocols will now proceed through the remaining ratification process, allowing Antigua and Barbuda to formally deposit its instruments of ratification in accordance with ICAO procedures.