30/01/2009 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 30 January, the European Commission proposed opening negotiations with Georgia on a comprehensive air agreement which would create a common air space and open up both parties' air markets. It would also allow Tbilisi to join the EU internal air market, aligning Georgian legislation with Community standards. In November 2006, the two parties adopted a joint action plan to support Georgia's inclusion in European political and economic bodies, and Tbilisi was among the first EU neighbouring capitals to sign a horizontal agreement with the EU on air services. The Commission says the new comprehensive agreement would be an important step to enhancing air relations. Passenger and freight transport between the EU and Georgia has increased considerably since 2004, with annual growth of some 14 percentage points. (A.By./transl/rt)