The comprehensive action plan for improving the environmental situation in Azerbaijan (2006-2010) has increaseed the priority given to the protection of water resources, the restoration of natural water protection environments such as forests, and the provision of safe drinking w'ater to the population. Since 2001, the Asian Development Bank has approved loans for projects amounting to USS 800 million for water and sanitation in secondary cities and periurban areas. The World Bank has approved loans worth USS 490 million to improve w'ater and sanitation conditions in 43 districts. Furthermore, bilateral cooperation with such countries as Japan and with other financial institutions is continuing.