Malta won't withdraw

Many rumours have been circulating on the Internet about the possible withdrawal of several countries for 2008, one of the most popular ones being Malta. However, the Maltese broadcaster has confirmed today that Malta will be present in Belgrade, despite having to start in the semi final of the Eurovision Song Contest for the second consecutive year.

Estonia, who have so far failed to qualify on every single occasion since the semi final was introduced, will also be playing in Belgrade, although ETV are considering their options for Eurolaul, the national final.

Montenegro, who failed to qualify in 2007 on their first attempt as an independent state, have also confirmed their presence in Serbia.

The continued participation of the Czech Republic, however, is more of a confusing matter. After coming last with only one point on their first ever participation, with one of the country's most successful bands, it is as yet unknown whether Czech broadcaster CT will be willing to finance another entry in 2008. However, while esctoday.com awaits confirmation from CT itself, the Czech Eurovision site is still being updated with Eurovision news in Czech, suggesting a continued interest.

source:esctoday.com