Toronto will spend $1.2 billion on security for next week's G20 summit, the city's Economic Development, Culture & Tourism head said on Wednesday.
The summit will be held in Canada's largest city on June 26-27.
"My estimate, what I'm hearing, is over one billion, $1.2 billion for security features in spending for preparing for G20," George Spezza said in an interview with RIA Novosti.
Preparations for the summit are now in full swing, he went on, with security stepped up across the entire city.
"You see now some changes, some concrete barriers and fences that are being installed around the red zone area around the convention center, increasing security cameras, increasing military personnel here, probably not so much this week, but as we get to the summit there will be some more security presence for sure," he said.
Spezza emphasized that in preparing for the summit, Toronto's authorities had drawn on the experience of previous G20 summit hosts.
"Lessons have been learned from other locations where such summits have taken place - in terms of some demonstrations and protests, but also I am sure in terms of some security measures. There will be some learning experiences that some our leaders here will take from other summits, including Pittsburgh," he said.
Spezza added that while there might be "a little disruption" for Toronto residents, they are generally very pleased to host the summit.
"It as an opportunity for many people from around the world who have not been to Toronto before to experience our city and hopefully enjoy their time here. I think there will be a little of disruption for people, but generally people are happy," he said.
"I think it will be very important for the city and will be an opportunity for the city to showcase itself in front of the international audience," he went on.
Despite vast expenses, Spezza said he was sure the summit would prove economically advantageous for the city.
"It's very important for the city - hosting this summit will bring some significant economic benefits. I think over 70 delegations are coming to Toronto with opportunity to stay at our hotels, experience our culture, eat at our restaurants. So I think overall in two days there will be significant benefits to the city as well," he said.
TORONTO, June 16 (RIA Novosti)
