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Sharks and rays plays an important role in the cultures and traditions of the Pacific people, including Samoans. These species are featured in our songs, legends and myths, in our traditional tattoos, clothing designs and traditional practices. As many sharks are top predators, they maintain the balance in healthy marine ecosystems, supporting eco-tourism and livelihoods.

The workshop was planned and organized by a steering group consisting of R.L. Brownell Jr., R.R. Reeves. N.J. Gales and W.F. Perrin (see Annex 1 for a list of participants). Brownell handled logistics and Reeves chaired the meeting in Samoa. Financial support was provided by WWF (International). The Ocean Conservancy, Animal Welfare Institute. Humane Society of the United States. Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society. U.S. Marine Mammal Commission and U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The workshop was hosted by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).