OSCE Mission to Moldova removed dangerous chemicals from Transnistria

Chisinau, Aug. 7 /MOLDPRES/- Due to the financial and technical support of the OSCE Mission to Moldova, 154 tons of dangerous chemicals have been extracted, repackaged and safely transported from the Transnistrian region for incineration in Germany. The chemicals were collected from electrical sub-stations in Bender, Grigoriopol, Hartop, Dubasari, Ribnitsa, Camenca and Moldavizolit plant in Tiraspol.

According to the OSCE, the chemicals were transported to Germany in eight trucks for incineration at a special site designed for the elimination of hazardous waste. This project aims to strengthen cooperation between the two banks of the Dniester River in addressing environmental safety issues, reducing disaster risks and managing hazardous waste. It also demonstrates the OSCE's concern for the well-being of residents on both banks, OSCE Moldova points out.

“Authorities from Tiraspol and Chisinau who oversaw the removal of these dangerous chemicals are committed to improving people’s health. They transformed the risks of these toxic chemicals into fruitful cooperation, as they agreed on the transportation of the chemicals to Germany for incineration”, said Ambassador Kelly Keiderling, Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova.

Following requests by the Moldovan government and representatives of the Transnistrian region, the OSCE worked out the project to facilitate the removal of about 363 tons of dangerous chemicals. In June 2023, the OSCE Mission to Moldova and the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Moldova signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Removal and Disposal of Dangerous Chemicals from Moldova. In the second half of 2024, about 210 tons of dangerous chemicals will be removed, repackaged and transported from the right bank of the Dniester River.