ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano Emphasises Global Cooperation For Aviation Sustainability

Salvatore Sciacchitano, President of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council, has highlighted the need for global collaboration to improve civil aviation's safety, security, and sustainability. During his opening remarks at the fourth ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium 2025 in the UAE, he thanked the UAE government for hosting. He also praised Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri and Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi for their roles in ensuring the event's success.

Sciacchitano underscored ICAO’s efforts over the past three years to assist member states in meeting safety, security, and sustainability objectives. He pointed out that ICAO's transformation includes establishing the Capacity Development and Implementation Bureau. This change aligns with their "No Country Left Behind" strategy, which has evolved into a strategic goal.

The "No Country Left Behind" initiative ensures all member states achieve aviation standards equally. It provides targeted support to those struggling with implementation. Sciacchitano mentioned that this strategy is now part of a broader 2026-2050 action plan adopted by the ICAO Council. This plan signifies a major shift in how ICAO supports its members.

He emphasised that sustainable funding is crucial for this transformation. Over the past three years, ICAO has secured more than US$25 million from countries and donors to support these efforts. Sciacchitano called for further investment through a new budget to boost ICAO’s ability to aid its member states effectively.

Sciacchitano revealed that achieving these ambitious goals requires ongoing financial backing. He urged continued investment to enhance ICAO’s capacity to support its members in implementing aviation standards. The organisation aims to maintain momentum by securing additional funds through a new budget.

The symposium serves as a platform for strengthening cooperation among member states and international organisations. It reflects ICAO’s commitment to fostering collaboration and sharing best practices within the civil aviation sector globally.

The event highlights the importance of international partnerships in addressing challenges faced by the aviation industry. By working together, countries can ensure safer, more secure, and sustainable air travel worldwide.

With inputs from WAM