A full meeting of a parliamentary committee is held on April 7 to support the nation's hosting this year of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit at the National Assembly in Seoul's Yeouido district. (Yonhap News)

By Aisylu Akhmetzianova

Progress has been achieved in the preparation of transportation, shipping and conference venues for a successful hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in late October in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province.

Second Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kang Insun on April 7 attended a reading of a report on such progress by a parliamentary committee at the National Assembly in Seoul to support Gyeongju's hosting of the summit.

On transportation and shipping, she said, "To prepare for the arrival of planes carrying heads of state, we're working to ensure smooth and convenient air travel conditions by securing a nearby airport apron and remodeling the VIP room."

"We are devising a basic plan on promotional strategies for transportation and shipping, vehicle procurement and shuttle operation plans for smooth transportation between major points like airports, KTX (high-speed rail) stations and event venues to ensure the convenient arrival of all delegations at the Gimhae and Incheon airports."

"By late September, we will complete the construction of all key conference spaces including the main venue Gyeongju Hwabaek International Convention Center (HICO) and lodging for heads of state and CEOs," she added. "We can secure about 9,600 rooms at some 100 accommodation facilities if we include nearby cities like Daegu and Busan."

Covering 2,000 square m, the summit's banquet hall will be finished by September at the courtyard of Gyeongju National Museum for use over the next two to three years.

Vice Minister Kang said, "Gyeongju will be in charge of medical measures and a plan is being devised on detailed actions via consultations and services from the emergency medical advisory team."

Based on previous summits, she said about 20,000 people are expected to attend the summit including the leaders of 21 APEC member states, government delegates, entrepreneurs and reporters, with a daily maximum of 7,500-9,500.

aisylu@korea.kr