Ukraine will receive 5 million euros from the European Union, which will be allocated to improve the safe management of radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel and to improve the environmental rehabilitation of former nuclear facilities.
This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olga Stefanishina, who has signed an Agreement on the financing of the Annual Action Program for 2020 on Cooperation in Nuclear Safety between the Government of Ukraine and the European Commission.
"With the support of the EU, we are launching a project that will help improve the safe management of radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel in Ukraine, as well as better the environmental rehabilitation of former nuclear facilities," said Olha Stefanishyna.
The total cost of the program is EUR 6.5 million, of which the EU will provide EUR 5 million, while Ukraine's contribution – EUR 1.5 million. Funding will be used to develop recommendations on possible options and technological solutions for the future management of the Pidlisny radioactive waste disposal site, as well as the management of waste contained therein. Funding will also help improve the system of radiation monitoring of water resources in the exclusion zone.
Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna also signed Supplementary Agreement №1 between the Government of Ukraine and the European Commission on Amendments to the Financing Agreement "Technical Cooperation Program 2019". The supplementary deal provides for the redirection of funds to support the development of the capacity of public authorities to implement the Association Agreement in the field of transport. In particular, the assistance will allow to improve the connectivity and compatibility of different modes of transport, the efficient use of available capacities, as well as reduce the cost of transport services to boost trade.