BUCHAREST, ROMANIA - (AUGUST 26, 2003) Earlier today, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) awarded a $517,960 grant to the Romanian Ministry of Agriculture, Forests, Waters and Environment, to fund a feasibility study on the development and deployment of an integrated water resources management system (IWAREMS). The system will be part of an overall water management (WATMAN) system in Romania. The grant illustrates the USTDA commitment to assist Romania in modernizing its water management and disaster response methods. This modernization will make the system consistent with European Union standards in those areas.

A signing ceremony conferring the grant was held at the American Center in Bucharest. The Honorable Michael Guest, U.S. Ambassador to Romania, signed a grant agreement on behalf of the U.S. Government. His Excellency Ilie Sarbu, Romanian Minister of Agriculture, Forests, Waters and Environment, signed on behalf of the Grantee.

The USTDA-funded study will focus on the equipment and components necessary for the creation of a WATMAN system in Romania. The study will entail an economic analysis of the existing system and propose necessary upgrades and additions. The feasibility study will also develop a strategy for public involvement in water resource and crisis management procedures. The study is critical to ensuring that Romania has a complete national water management system capable of combating floods.

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency advances economic development and U.S. commercial interests in developing and middle-income countries. The agency funds various forms of technical assistance, feasibility studies, training, orientation visits and business workshops that support the development of a modern infrastructure and a fair and open trading environment. USTDA's strategic use of foreign assistance funds to support sound investment policy and decision-making in host countries creates an enabling environment for trade, investment and sustainable economic development. In carrying out its mission, USTDA gives emphasis to economic sectors that may benefit from U.S. exports of goods and services.

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