A Japanese representative for the Republic of Palau is seeking support, both moral and financial, for the small South Pacific island country, which he said has suffered a terrible setback since the bridge connecting its two main islands collapsed in 1995.

Palau, with an area of 458 sq. km, relies mainly on agriculture, fishing and tourism, said Toshio Masuda, chief adviser for Palau's National Congress. But the recent collapse of its major bridge has crippled the national economy, he said, adding that the cost of rebuilding it is estimated at $81.8 million -- half of the nation's gross national product.

He stressed that Palau is not just looking for money but for recognition and support, and he hopes Japan can see its way to lending a hand. Palau has a long colonial history. First ruled by Spain, it was sold to Germany and then was a colony of Japan from 1914 to the end of World War II. Following the war, Palau became a Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands under the United States, gaining its independence two years ago.