necessary programs and law to protect the rights of their culture and heritage, reports Radio New Zealand International.
Tizard was the keynote speaker during the opening of a three-day traditional knowledge symposium here in American Samoa.
The symposium aims to discuss ways to protect, preserve and promote the indigenous cultures of Oceania.
Tizard said there are tremendous opportunities for social and cultural interchange, show-casing of local products and an increase in economic and tourism activities.
She reminded delegates that there is a need to preserve the performing and production skills underlying the broad variety of cultural expression.
She said these include all expertise and skills in crafts which have been rediscovered and revitalized and in some cases updated.
