Ukraine postpones discussions on Bistroe canal

Romanian authorities suggested two weeks ago the organizing of a debate on the Bistroe canal problem, inviting the Ukrainian authorities to participate. The discussions were scheduled for July 4, in Tulcea, the main theme being the results of an environmental study. Ukrainian authorities invoked the lack o time for preparing for the debates and demanded the Romanian side to postpone the meeting.

Still, Ukraine announced that all works on the Bistroe Canal were ceased and will remain suspended until an European study on the environmental impact is conducted and common debates with the Romanian authorities are organized.

The turning of Bistroe into a deep navigation canal stirred controversy, the main problem being the fact that it may heavily affect the Danube Delta, a major reservation of flora and fauna.