By Netani Rika
SECURITY has been stepped up at Papua New Guinea’s international airport ahead of the APEC Summit in November.
Experts from Australia’s Border Force have started to map out security strategies at Jackson’s International Airport with local staff.
And the presence of Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary officers at the airport has also been increased.
Hundreds of diplomats from the Asia-Pacific region will be in the PNG capital from November 14-18 for the summit.
PNG has a reputation for lawlessness and criminal activity, especially around the capital.
Keen to use the summit as a showcase for investment opportunities, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has promised a secure summit.
This week APEC Finance Ministers met in Madang with tight security provided by reinforcements from Port Moresby.
O’Neill has told local media that security around the November event will be of international standard.
Australian Special Forces are expected to provide support to PNG police and military units assigned to APEC security details.
The National Airports Corporation responsible for the international airport has stepped up internal security within the terminal building.
The Royal PNG Constabulary has upgraded its airport station and conducts regular patrols of Jackson’s International.
O’Neill said the APEC talks were crucial for the development of PN G and the region.