There were 27 groups representing different nations that participated in the parade which started at 8 am yesterday.
The participants assembled at the old Koror State office in Idid and paraded down to the Bethlehem compound where the President, the Ministers and foreign dignitaries were waiting.President Toribiong acknowledged each group and thanked them for their participation.The President in an interview said that yesterday’s parade of nations proved that Palau is now a member of the International community.“It was impressive and we were moved by the outcome of the parade. It’s a demonstration that we can stand equally with the other nations,” the President said.The group that participated in the parade of nations were Koror, Melekeok, Ngaremlengui, Aimeliik, Airai, Angaur, Hatohobei, Kayangel, Ngaraard, Ngarchelong, Ngardmau, Ngatpang, Ngchesar, Ngiwal, Peleliu and Sonsorol for Palau; United Nations; Australia; Bangladesh; FSM; Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei, Yap; Fiji; India; Indonesia; Israel; Japan; Nepal; new Zealand; People’s Republic of China; Republic of China Taiwan; Republic of Ghana (West Africa); Marshall Island; Philippines; Romania; Slovakia; Tonga; Unites States of America; American Samoa; Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Island and Italy.The parade was organized by the Palau Visitor’s Authority and Community Support Services Manager Melson Miko in a separate interview said that the parade turned out good and the weather was also good.“We tried to reach all groups and we’re glad that we did. It is the President’s way of recognizing the participants and their community for being here with us and for celebrating our Independence Day,” Miko said.Miko said they finished setting up the stage and the booths at 10:45 pm on Wednesday.Among the States that set up booths were Angaur, Ngeremlengui, Kayangel, Koror, Airai, Aimeliik, Kabayan restaurant, Palau High School, Island Jams Basketball, JICA and several other agencies.Yesterday was not only a celebration of 15th Independence Day but also a celebration of Olechotel Belau Fair 2009, United Nations and World Food Day.Farm Animals display featuring horses, cow, goat and chickens was also an attraction at yesterday’s event.Aside from the agriculture products and flowers, there were also photo exhibit which was held at the Civic Center.There were performances after the ceremony. A young group of women from Ngardmau performed women’s traditional dance while young men from Ngardmau and Ngermid did men’s war dances.Young ladies from Ngiwal, Ngerchemai and Emellakl group also performed in the contemporary dance.Aside from dances and chants, the audience was also entertained with a live band.
