Preparations for Our Oceans 2020 Conference in August of this year will continue until further notice, according to information released yesterday by Our Oceans 2020 Steering Committee.
“The Republic of Palau shares in the global concern surrounding the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)” and will closely monitor the global situation. It says that the Steering Committee working with the Office of the President and the Ministry of Health to monitor and “assess risks” to Palau and the invitees. “The safety of the Palauan public and of its visitors and invitees…remains our foremost priority.”
Information further states that any decision affecting the schedule of OOC 2020 will be based on “recommendations and situation analysis from the World Health Organization” and in consultation with hosts and organizers of major international events in the next few months.
Should the global situation continue, the Committee said that the conference may be postponed but to a later date within this year. “The decision will be made after the Palau Government consults with the Host Committee (Norway and Panama).”
It added that in the event of postponement, the invitees and public will be notified immediately. (L.N. Reklai)