On October 16, 2023, the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI) in Cambodia officially opened its doors to the public, marking a new era for tourism in the country. The state-of-the-art facility is located about 50 kilometers from the city of Siem Reap, home to the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex.

SAI is a significant upgrade from the old Siem Reap International Airport, which was built in the 1960s and had become increasingly inadequate to meet the needs of growing tourist traffic. With a capacity to handle up to 7 million passengers per year, SAI is expected to boost tourism in Cambodia by making it easier and more convenient for visitors from all over the world to travel to Siem Reap.

The grand opening of SAI was a major event for Cambodia, attended by officials from Cambodia and China. In his speech at the ceremony, Prime Minister Hun Sen said that SAI is a symbol of Cambodia's development and its commitment to tourism. He also thanked the Chinese government for its support in the construction of the airport.

The airport features a modern terminal building, two runways, and a state-of-the-art air traffic control system. It is also equipped with a variety of amenities for passengers, including restaurants, shops, and duty-free shopping.

The opening of SAI is expected to have a significant impact on the Cambodian economy. The airport has created thousands of jobs for Cambodians, and it is expected to attract even more tourists to the country. Tourism is a major pillar of the Cambodian economy, and the opening of SAI is seen as a key step in the country's efforts to boost economic growth and development.

In addition to its economic benefits, SAI is also expected to have a positive social impact on Cambodia. The airport will make it easier for Cambodians to travel abroad, and it will also help to promote cultural exchange between Cambodia and other countries.

The grand opening of SAI is a significant milestone in Cambodia's history. The new airport is a symbol of the country's development and its commitment to the future. It is also a testament to the strong relationship between Cambodia and China.