JEDDAH, 26 February 2006 — France, which is already present in Saudi Arabia with its technology in various fields of activity, is now increasingly looking for airport projects. “Our visit coincides with the Kingdom’s plans to upgrade and expand its airports with the latest equipment and technology,” a member of the delegation said.
The team represents eight members who are specialized in airport equipment and technology. They gave a series of presentations at Alhamra Sofitel Hotel yesterday, which was attended by directors and officials of local and other airports across the Kingdom. They included directors and senior officials representing King Abdul Aziz International Airport (KAIA), the Royal Terminal and airports in Madinah, Tabuk and the Royal Commission of Yanbu. “Additionally, the visitors are conducting workshops to introduce their products and services,” Samir H. Eshky, deputy director of project development at KAIA, told Arab News on the sidelines of the presentation. “This is just an introductory meeting prior to the issuance of tenders and invitation of bids for projects at various airports here,” Alain Boutebel, economic and commercial counselor at the Consulate General of France, said.
The visitors are meeting the specialized units of the General Authority for Civil Aviation with a view to presenting the French technology and its use in various projects, especially the expansion of KAIA. The delegation comprises Philippe Laburthe of CNIM, Christian Senechal of ALSTEF, Laurent Lacledere of Thor, Herve Mariage of Schneider, Eric Papillon of Degreane, Fabrice Katz of ADPI, Philippe Guerbe of Thales, and Alcatel’s Eric Bernard, Guy Martin Prevel and Amir Sidhom.