Water-Quality Pact Signed
As expected, ministers from 35 countries yesterday
signed an agreement to
combat water-borne diseases and improve the quality of
drinking water throughout
Europe. The pact, which must be ratified by 16
governments to enter into effect,
commits the countries to ensure adequate sanitation,
protect water resources, provide
safe drinking water and implement water standards. The
WHO has estimated that
one in seven Europeans lacks safe drinking water
(Associated Press, 17 Jun).
To review previous coverage of the European
ministers conference, see UN Wire
17 June, 16 June and 14 June.