In an interview with eurovision.tv, Jon Ola Sand, Executive Producer of the Eurovision Song Contest expressed how happy he is to have Portugal and Poland return to the contest this year, along with his predictions for the 60th anniversary of the event next year.

–Several broadcasters already expressed their interest to return in 2015, when we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest. We will also continue to work with broadcasters who are facing challenges. One thing is for sure: we need to adapt to reality.

When asked about whether the contest was becoming too expensive for many European countries still reeling from the financial crisis, Sand expressed the high value of the contest, along with the measures the organizing committee is implementing to ensure continued participation from as many countries as possible.

–The EBU froze participation fees for 2014 compared to last year. In 2013 we already shortened the rehearsal schedule with a day, cutting costs for delegations staying in the host city. This year, host broadcaster DR and their local partners negotiated sharp hotel prices.

Despite the ongoing measures, a number of countries have decided to withdraw from the contest this year, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Serbia, along with Bosnia & Herzegovina who were also absent from the contest last year.

When pressed about Turkey’s future participation in the contest, Sand expressed his wish for Turkey to return, but said the decision is ultimately up to TRT.

Stay tuned to esctoday.com for the latest news on the 2014 Eurovision Song Contest.