"An additional $205,000 would be provided to the Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust (KVPT) for its ongoing restoration and conservation of the 17th century Patan Royal Palace,” said the press statement issued by the embassy on Tuesday.[break]
Ambassador Bodde called the support a symbol of KVPT´s commitment to excellence and dedication to preserving Nepal´s invaluable cultural landmarks. This project was awarded an AFCP grant of $900,000 in 2009. Likewise, the Alliance for Ecotourism would be provided $75,300 for preserving the Kartik Nach tradition. "This is unique form of 17th century storytelling through dance, with only a few remaining community members knowing the full scope of the performance,” the statement said.
Established by the US Congress in 2001 and administered by the US Department of State, the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation provides support for the preservation of cultural sites, cultural objects and collections, and forms of traditional cultural expression around the world. "These contributions represent a commitment of more than $36 million toward cultural heritage preservation needs around the globe, including more than $1.7 million in Nepal," the statement added.
'Nepal’s progress in heritage reconstruction is remarkable '