PHNOM PENH: Cambodia signed a public-private partnership agreement with Swiss security company Albans Management on the morning of September 1, to establish Cambodia Aviation Security Services Co. to provide security services for international airports in Cambodia.

Representing the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, Minister Mao Havanall, thanked the former Prime Minister Hun Sen and current Prime Minister Hun Manet, for their support and approval of the public-private partnership. He said that private investment is a priority in the socio-economic development of civil aviation and improving living standards towards the vision of achieving high middle-income by 2030 and a high-income country by 2050. With this contract, the government aims to reduce the risks related to aviation security issues and create 1,400 airport jobs in addition to 600 “indirect jobs” during the contract’s first phase.

He urged all parties involved in the provision of aviation services, especially international airport operators, to cooperate effectively and responsibly to ensure that aviation security operates smoothly in accordance with the principles agreed upon by the Royal Government.

Permanent Secretary of State and Civil Aviation spokesperson Sin Chanserivutha told reporters that the contract gives Albans exclusive rights to provide aviation security services at all international airports in Cambodia, replacing the existing security companies.

"When we have a company with a high standard, we will raise the profile of Cambodia. Notably, when we have a company with high standards, we can attract more big airlines that want to fly to Cambodia, especially passenger and freight flights,” he said.

The new Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport is due to open in October and is primed to bring more tourism and investment to Cambodia through public-private partnerships.