DAR ES SALAAM, July 1 -- Tanzania and Somalia plan to resume direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Mogadishu as part of renewed efforts to deepen diplomatic and economic ties.

The announcement was made during celebrations marking Somalias 65th Independence Day, which also featured the official reopening of the Somali Embassy in Tanzania after a full renovation.

Speaking at the event, Tanzanias Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, reaffirmed the countries historic relationship and commitment to closer cooperation.

He noted that both sides have agreed to revive the aviation sector by updating the bilateral air service agreement and launching direct flights eliminating the need for travel ...