The Samoa Airport Authority today received its new Airport Identification Card System, donated by the Government and the people of New Zealand, funded through the Pacific Security Fund.
Minister Olo Fiti Vaai on behalf of the Government of Samoa, thanked the Government of New Zealand, for its continuing support, to ensure that regional aviation activities are provided with the highest regard of safety and security.
The Minister further acknowledged that Samoa is the first recipient of the 9 countries earmarked for this new technology airport identity card project that is being delivered by the NZ Civil Aviation Authority at a cost of SAT$50,000.
The value of this new asset to our aviation system is endless, as it reinforces and ensures Samoa’s satisfaction with international security requirements under ICAO Annex 17, which are currently implemented by the Samoa Airport Authority.
He said in line with the making of Samoa’s treaty of Friendship with New Zealand and the visit by Prime Minister Ardern last week, this donation is another milestone of New Zealand’s commitment to the strengthening of regional security.
The Minister also announced a multi-million Tala commitment by New Zealand, to further enhance border security through the providing and installation of new age 3-Dimensionsial Computed Tomography (CT) technology x-ray scanning equipment for our airports in the next 12 months.
He said the timely arrival of this new equipment, looking ahead to the hosting, by Samoa of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, in 2024.
