Australia is providing $561k for a marine survey that will support preparations for a second internet submarine cable into Palau.
Australia’s funding builds on the AU$ 2million provided in 2016 to land the first submarine cable and support regulatory and policy reforms in Palau’s information and communications sector.
“ Australia is proud to be supporting the Republic of Palau’s internet infrastructure. The marine survey is a critical component to ensure reliable internet connections are maintained in the future, ” said Australian Ambassador to Palau, Richelle Turner .
“ If the first cable is damaged then connectivity will be lost. The marine survey will support the Republic of Palau prepare for the construction of a second internet cable. The second internet cable will provide redundancy, enabling the government to continue to provide e-services, businesses to operate in a global market and family members to connect with each other. ”
“ A second internet cable remains a priority for national resilience ,” said the President of the Republic of Palau, Hon. Tommy E. Remengesau Jr.
“ Assistance from Australia means groundwork can be laid for the second cable connection, enabling construction to commence once the Palau economy restabilises. The Republic of Palau appreciates Australia’s ongoing support. ”
Funding for the marine survey will go to Belau Submarine Cable Corporation (BSCC). BSCC is managing a contract with the NEC Corporation of Japan to conduct the marine survey using specialist services from EGS.