Global Environment Facility to Fund Dniester Cooperation With $6 Million

The Global Environment Facility will allocate $6 million for cross-border cooperation on the Dniester

Experts from both banks of the Dniester discussed the current hydrological situation in the river basin, the monitoring of water levels and flow rates, as well as possible technical solutions to environmental problems. A separate topic of discussion was the initiative to rehabilitate the wastewater treatment plant in Bendery.

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The meeting of the working groups on environmental protection took place via videoconference with the support of the OSCE Mission to the Republic of Moldova.

Participants examined changes in water levels and flow rates in the Dniester, as well as the need for continuous monitoring and the exchange of hydrological data. They also discussed the operation of the Dubossary Hydropower Complex in the context of reduced water flow and the potential impact of its operating regime on the middle and lower reaches of the river.

Particular attention was paid to organising measurements at agreed sections of the Dniester, access for relevant specialists to monitoring sites, and the use of automated equipment for data collection.

At the meeting, international expert Dana Bogdan presented a project aimed at strengthening cross-border cooperation and integrated water resources management in the Dniester basin. The programme covers the period 2025–2029, has a budget of $6 million, and is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

The project aims to improve water resources management, reduce environmental impact and enhance resilience to climate change. Within its framework, the possibility of providing technical support to address the Dniester’s current hydrological challenges may be considered — taking into account the project’s objectives and available resources.

Bender wastewater treatment plant: documentation required for assessment

Another topic discussed was the initiative to rehabilitate the wastewater treatment plant in Bender. Experts from Chisinau expressed their willingness to consider it, noting the importance of reducing pollution in the Dniester for residents on both banks.

For a technical assessment of the project, it is necessary to provide data on the current condition of the facility, the estimated scope of work and preliminary cost, project documentation, the results of previous surveys, and information on measures already taken.

Once these materials have been examined, experts will be able to assess possible options for further action. The Convergence Fund was mentioned as one of the potential funding mechanisms. However, the possibility of allocating support and attracting international donors has yet to be considered by the competent authorities in Moldova.

The meeting also touched upon the work of the Commission on the Sustainable Use and Protection of the Dniester Basin. Chisinau emphasised the transparency of its activities and the availability of documents and decisions on the official websites of the relevant institutions.

The discussion confirmed the need for continuous hydrological monitoring, data exchange and the search for technical solutions to the environmental problems of the Dniester basin.

This story was translated with the assistance of artificial intelligence.The translation was also reviewed by the Logos Press editorial team.

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