The Cabinet yesterday granted approval to establish air services between Sri Lanka and Ukraine.

The Aeronautical Authorities of Sri Lanka and Ukraine have held discussions in October 2010 with the view to finalize an Air Services Agreement to facilitate operations between the two countries.

On a recommendation made by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as Minister of Ports and Aviation, the Cabinet has given approval to designate one or more airlines for the purpose of operating the agreed services on the specific routes.

Under the agreement each party is to operate 7 frequencies per week for the International Air Transport Association (lATA) Winter Season 2010/2011.

The government will consider expanding the service to 14 flights per week between the two countries from lATA Summer Season 2011.

The establishment of air links between the two countries has resulted from the bilateral agreements signed in trade, tourism, and security during President Rajapaksa's visit to Ukraine in June 2010.