U.S Undersecretary hopes Trump administration will continue Open Skies Agreement

United States.- José W. Fernández, Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and Environment, expressed optimism that the bilateral Open Skies agreement between the Dominican Republic and the United States will proceed under the new administration. With just over a month left in the Biden-Harris Administration, Fernández emphasized that the agreement, which aims to reduce flight costs and increase frequencies between the two countries, is now in the hands of the Dominican Congress. He hopes it will be finalized soon.

Fernández, who personally worked on the agreement, highlighted its potential to offer more affordable flights, particularly for Dominican families, and ensure better connectivity between the two nations. The agreement was signed in August by Fernández and Dominican Minister of Tourism David Collado, in the presence of President Luis Abinader. After passing through the Senate, the agreement now awaits approval by the Chamber of Deputies before being ratified.

During a virtual conference, Fernández also discussed his work with the Dominican Republic, particularly on medical equipment and supply chain initiatives, and his positive relationship with Minister of Industry and Commerce Víctor Bisonó. He praised the country’s role in hosting the Economic and Health Dialogue of the Americas, which aimed to improve regional health systems. The agreement is set to be ratified once both chambers of the Dominican Congress approve it, followed by formal promulgation by President Abinader.