An air services agreement (ASA) provides the legal and regulatory framework for the operation of scheduled air services.

The agreement would facilitate the introduction of direct scheduled flights between the two countries, should any commercial operator wish to begin services.

Some airlines have already “informally expressed an interest in this route”, according to the Department of Transport.

Irish transport minister Darragh O’Brien said: “I am delighted that negotiations are underway between our officials.

“A bilateral air services agreement between Ireland and Brazil would send a strong signal to industry of the commitment our two governments have to facilitating direct connectivity between our two countries which would realise significant benefits for tourism and trade and further develop the growing bonds between our people.

“I am optimistic about the pace of progress, and I look forward to both sides bringing the agreement to fruition in due course.”

Brazilian minister for ports and airports Silvio Costa Filho said: “The bilateral air services agreement between Brazil and Ireland represents an opportunity not only to expand aviation links between the two countries, but also to boost tourism between Latin America and Europe.

“This is a very important milestone for both governments, which have demonstrated mutual interest in opening new markets and strengthening the mode of transport that carries the largest number of people worldwide on long-haul journeys.

“The Ministry of Ports and Airports and the federal government will make every effort to ensure that the agreement will be concluded soon, paving the way for air operations between the two nations.”

As an international agreement, the ASA will need to pass through the various domestic procedures of both countries before being signed and entering into force.