Chinese PM hints at Sarajevo flights

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The Chinese Prime Minister, Li Keqiang, has said that talks over the establishment of flights between Beijing and Sarajevo are in full motion. The announcement came following talks between Mr Li and Bosnia and Herzegovina's Council of Ministers Chairman, Denis Zvizdić. at the sidelines of the CEEC - China 16+1 Summit in Sofia last week. The talks were attended by Bosnia’s Minister for Transport and Communications, Ismir Jusko. Mr Jusko noted last month that a Beijing - Belgrade - Sarajevo service is likely following talks with the Chinese Ambassador to Bosnia, Chen Bo. The Minister said the two sides are expected to sign a bilateral Air Service Agreement which would provide the legal framework for the establishment of flights. Ambassador Bo emphasised the tourism potential of Bosnia and noted that the number of visitors from China to the country increased between 130% and 140% in 2017 compared to the year before. The two countries abolished visa requirements for each others' nationals in late May of this year. Hainan Airlines currently maintains a two weekly service between Beijing and Belgrade via Prague.