New project launched to protect Dniester River, strengthen cooperation with Ukraine

A project titled, Strengthening Cross-Border Cooperation and Integrated Water Resource Management in the Dniester River Basin through Implementing the Strategic Action Programme (SAP), today was launched at the Ministry of Environment. The initiative aims to protect and sustainably use the Dniester River, an essential resource for millions of people in Moldova and Ukraine.

Through this project, Moldovan and Ukrainian authorities are joining forces to efficiently manage the Dniester River, considering new challenges posed by climate change, drought and pollution risks. Gheorghe Hajder, State Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, emphasized that “this project strengthens the partnership between the two countries and leverages international experience in water protection.”

The project will be implemented through six key directions. “This involves strengthening cooperation between Moldova and Ukraine for joint management of water resources; aligning legislation with international standards (the UN Water Convention and EU Water Framework Directive); reducing pollution and the impact of human activities on the river; adapting to climate change, preventing drought and other natural disasters; involving citizens and communities in river protection; research and effective governance in the Dniester Basin.

The launch event was attended by representatives of the OSCE, the Ukrainian Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), key partners in supporting this initiative.

The Dniester River is the main source of drinking water for a large part of Moldova’s population. Protecting this river means more than just a clean environment – it means safety for people, support for agriculture and stability for future generations. This project is a concrete step towards more effective cross-border governance, with modern and participative solutions for a vital river.