Taiwan is biggest donor so far
Palau has accumulated more than $9,700,000 worth of pledges from other countries in support of its hosting of the Our Ocean Conference on August 17-18 next year.
President Tommy Remengesau Jr. revealed that so far, Taiwan’s government had donated the largest amount by pouring out $3,000,000 for the renovation of the national gymnasium which will serve as the venue for the plenary session of the conference.
Apart from that, a portion of the amount will also be used to rebuild the structure next to it that had recently been burnt down in a fire incident last month.
Japan-based non-profit organizations Nippon Foundation and Sasakawa Peace Foundation had also extended $2,000,000 which will be utilized for the logistics of the conference.
India and Indonesia have also each committed $1,000,000 for the event while New Zealand also dedicated $750,000 for the construction of a Pacific Pavilion Center at the old Olbiil Era Kelulau building.
Australia also poured out $500,000 while Serbia dedicated $600,000 meant to upgrade the national gymnasium.
Norway also extended $550,000 while the United States also previously announced $300,000 for the event which will be allocated for the security equipment.
President Remengesau said that further donations by other countries have yet to be announced at a later time. He also added that the United Nations Office of Project Services (UNOPS) will serve as a project implementation agency for the event.
The president reiterated that this will be the first time that Palau will host such a big event. (Rhealyn C. Pojas)