05/12/2007 (Agence Europe) - Canada and the European Union met on 27-28 November in Brussels for the first round of negotiations for an aviation agreement between the two sides. Objective: to open up access to respective markets, and to increase regulatory cooperation. According to a study launched by the Commission, the number of passengers between the EU and Canada could increase from the current 8.7 to 14 million by 2011. In addition, the agreement could generate consumer benefits of at least €72 million through lower fares. Currently, bilateral air services arrangements exist between 19 member states and Canada. (L.C.)