*EPF404 09/30/2004
Text: USTDA Supports Creation of Airport Security Plan for Thai Airways
(Grant reflects U.S., APEC commitment to regional security) (520)

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has provided a $530,000 grant to develop a threat assessment and security implementation plan for Thai Airways, Thailand's national carrier, the USTDA said in a press release issued September 23.

"The USTDA grant awarded today reflects the U.S. Government's overall commitment to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum's objective of advancing regional economic growth, prosperity and security," the release says.

Following is the text of the press release:

(begin text)

USTDA SUPPORTS SECURITY PROGRAM FOR THAI AIRWAYS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BANGKOK, THAILAND (September 23, 2004) - Earlier today, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) provided a $530,000 grant to Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI). The grant will be used to develop a threat assessment and security implementation plan for THAI's operations at the new Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is scheduled to open in September 2005. The grant was conferred in a signing ceremony held at THAI's Head Office in Bangkok. United States Ambassador to Thailand Darryl N. Johnson and Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, President, signed the grant agreement on behalf of the U.S. Government and THAI, respectively.

As Thailand's national carrier, THAI will be the largest tenant of the new airport and a key provider of aviation-related services to other airlines using the airport's facilities. The USTDA-funded implementation plan will identify resources and define security policies that will help THAI meet international security standards and ensure the safety of its operations. The assistance will also highlight the latest technologies and practices that can prevent the impact of terrorism on lives, assets and business reputation.

The USTDA grant awarded today reflects the U.S. Government's overall commitment to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum's objective of advancing regional economic growth, prosperity and security. In particular, the technical assistance supports the Secure Trade in the APEC Region (STAR) Initiative, which seeks to accelerate efforts to screen people and cargo before transit, increase security on ships and airplanes while en route, secure private company supply chains, and enhance security in airports and seaports. In addition, the technical assistance will advance the goals of the Asian Development Bank's Regional Trade and Financial Security Initiative (RTFSI), which was established by APEC Leaders to strengthen anti-money laundering efforts, combat the financing of terrorism, and enhance port security in the APEC Region.

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency advances economic development and U.S. commercial interests in developing and middle-income countries. The agency funds various forms of technical assistance, feasibility studies, training, orientation visits and business workshops that support the development of a modern infrastructure and a fair and open trading environment. USTDA's strategic use of foreign assistance funds to support sound investment policy and decision-making in host countries creates an enabling environment for trade, investment and sustainable economic development. In carrying out its mission, USTDA gives emphasis to economic sectors that may benefit from U.S. exports of goods and services.

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(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)

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