Ukraine Danube Delta Canal Project

The United States is deeply concerned about the potential substantial negative environmental impact of a proposed shipping canal sponsored by the Government of Ukraine in the Danube Delta region. The ribbon cutting ceremony took place on May 11, 2004, and construction has begun. The planned route for the canal will in all likelihood cause significant environmental destruction to an ecologically sensitive area of the Danube Delta, the Bystre Estuary. The area has been designated both a UNESCO Man and the Biosphere site and a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance at the request of the Government of Ukraine. As a party to these international agreements, Ukraine is committed to preserve and protect the Danube Delta.

The biosphere region of the Danube Delta provides crucial habitat for endangered species, vital nesting grounds for over 300 species of migratory birds and spawning grounds that support a vital herring fishery. The U.S. Government has urged the Government of Ukraine to conduct the necessary impartial environmental impact assessment for the proposed canal and to select a route that will minimize the destructive impact on the environment, thus fulfilling its international commitments under the environmental agreements to which it is a party.

2004/559