Minister for Infrastructure and Transport: Australia–Peru aviation agreement signed

• Bilateral agreement on air services signed in Canberra today, facilitating opportunities for new services between Australia and Peru
• Agreement will support Australia's tourism industry, encourage investment and improve cultural and people-to-people links

Australia and Peru have signed an agreement to formally establish a treaty-level air services framework between the two countries for the first time.

Peru's Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism Eduardo Ferreyros Kuppers joined Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester in signing the agreement at Parliament House in Canberra today.

"This Agreement further strengthens bilateral relationships between our two countries, and will enable increased tourism and trade opportunities," Mr Chester said.

"Both Australian and Peruvian airlines will be able to provide air services between countries either using their own aircraft or via code share arrangements with other airlines.

"Australia and Peru have enjoyed a strong tourism, trade and investment relationship which has continued to grow. In 2015, there were 3,500 short-term arrivals to Australia from Peru, an increase of 12.7 per cent on the previous year, while nearly 40,000 Australians visited Peru.

"It's great to see growing connections between our two countries. Inbound and outbound tourism benefits both countries, whether that be giving local business new opportunities right through to sharing each of our cultures.

"I am delighted to see this agreement signed and I look forward to welcoming the people of Peru to our great country in coming years."