Maia Sandu awards Japan ambassador Yoichiro Yamada the Order of Honor distinction
President Maia Sandu awarded Japan's Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, Yoichiro Yamada, the prestigious "Order of Honor" distinction.
The award recognizes his significant contribution to strengthening the friendly relations and Japan-Moldova cooperation between the two nations.
During a farewell meeting with President Sandu at the close of his mandate in Chișinău, the head of state highly appreciated the substantial support Japan has granted to Moldova.
Over the last five years, the Government of Japan has provided the Republica Moldova with non-reimbursable financial assistance and loans totaling over $140 million. This significant investment was channeled into boosting the agricultural sector, strengthening the national medical system (especially with modern healthcare equipment), and fostering a modern and secure educational environment for children and youth.
Concrete Impact on Healthcare and Agriculture
As a direct result of this assistance, 14 medical institutions across the country were equipped with high-performance, essential equipment for providing quality medical care. Recipients include the Clinical Hospital of Traumatology and Orthopedics, the "Gheorghe Paladi" Municipal Clinical Hospital, the Republican Medical Diagnostics Center in Chișinău, and regional health centers in Edineț, Leova, and Căușeni.
Furthermore, over $20 million was allocated to modernizing agricultural machinery and equipment, directly increasing the sector's competitiveness. This funding also provided crucial financial support to farmers to mitigate the consequences of the devastating 2022 summer drought.
According to the Presidency, in the fields of education and social assistance, education projects backed by the Government of Japan improved access to modern resources and safe learning conditions. Key initiatives included the setup of a digital library at the State University of Moldova and the renovation of 12 kindergartens and gymnasiums in regions like Sireți, Comrat, Orhei, and Râșcani.
The Ambassador's Tenure
A career diplomat, Japan Ambassador Yamada Yoichiro held his position in the Republic of Moldova since December 2022.
The Order of Honor is the fourth highest in the hierarchy of state distinctions in Moldova. It follows the Order of the Republic, the Order "Stephen the Great," and the Order "Bogdan the Founder."
The distinction is conferred for meritorious contributions to strengthening statehood, promoting reforms, supporting democratic transformations, and for other special merits.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
