By Bernadette H. Carreon
Horizon news staff

President Remengesau welcomed delegates from the Mie Prefecture Club in Japan who are celebrating their 10th year anniversary of the special relationship with Palau.
The celebration was held at Ngarachamayong Cultural Center with cultural shows and over 180 members flew to Palau for the festivities last Feb. 3.
"This is a very impressive turnout and I know that you will not be disappointed. We are looking forward sharing our beautiful island nation with you, and we are particularly eager to watch the cultural performances to take place later this evening," Remengesau said in his message.
The president also took the time to thank the club for providing training to the Palauans in various exchange programs.
He said that the kind of training made available to the Palauan trainees were on air-conditioner maintenance, biomedical equipment repair, land surveying/global positioning system, water chemistry testing, television and video production, mechanics, carpentry, oral surgery, physical therapy, database design, outboard engine technology, physical education techniques, computer technology, heavy equipment mechanics and building maintenance.
"The training was hands-on and of course this is the best kind. In addition, the training programs include approximately two months of intensive Japanese language classes to prepare the students to gain maximum benefit from the experience," the president said.
The president said that in 2005, it was Mie Prefecture who hosted a dinner for Palau’s delegation during its visit and performance at the World Expo in Japan.
He said Palau this time is returning the hospitality.
State Minister Temmy Shmull for his part said that the "Mie Palau night" encourages further cultural exchange between the two nations.
He further added during his speech that "since the establishment of our friendship alliance, Palau has immensely benefited from technical training programs, youth exchange programs and other technical cooperation from Mie Prefecture."