16 Jun 2004

EU grants more than half a million dollars towards Palau Festival

1:35 pm on 16 June 2004

The European Union has is providing funding to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat of more than half a million US dollars to help pay for the 9th Festival of Pacific Arts in Palau next month.

The funds will be used for sound and lighting equipment, including the training of technicians, plus catering services and accommodation

Meanwhile the European Commission's Pacific head, Frans Baan, says the participation of the French Pacific Territories are an integral part of the event.

He says through such participation a sense of solidarity with the English speaking Polynesians, and between Polynesians, Melanesians and Micronesians is achieved.

Held every four years, this year's festival runs from 22-31 July with Palau hosting 27 delegations.