PHOTO // Republic of Moldova and Japan sign Memorandum of Cooperation in digital and artificial intelligence sectors

The Republic of Moldova and Japan are taking a decisive step toward strengthening their bilateral relations by signing a historic agreement in the field of technology. Deputy Prime Minister Eugeniu Osmochescu, Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization (MDED), and Japan’s Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications Hayashi Yoshimasa formalized in Chișinău a partnership aimed at accelerating the digital modernization of our country.

Memorandum of Cooperation for Innovation and Security

The document signed between the two ministries lays the foundation for close collaboration in cutting-edge sectors:

Artificial Intelligence (AI): Promoting the responsible use of AI and helping society adapt to new technologies through the exchange of experience.

Cybersecurity: Strengthening the protection of digital infrastructure, an aspect coordinated at national level by the Cybersecurity Agency.

Economic Development: Using the ICT sector as a central pillar for the industrial growth of the Republic of Moldova.

A Historic Visit Marking Friendship

Hayashi Yoshimasa emphasized the symbolic importance of his presence in Chișinău, as he is one of the first high-ranking Japanese officials to visit the Republic of Moldova since the country gained independence. In his capacity as president of the Japan–Moldova parliamentary friendship group, he expressed confidence that the new Memorandum will bring direct benefits to the citizens of both states.

Resilience to Regional Challenges

The discussions between the two officials also tackled sensitive topics related to the current geopolitical context:

Hybrid threats: The impact of the regional conflict and the increase in cyberattacks, especially during electoral periods, was analyzed.

Democracy and risks: The Japanese official noted that states with free democratic processes are often targets of these digital risks.

The role of UNIDO: Deputy Prime Minister Osmochescu highlighted the support of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization in strengthening Moldova–Japan relations, including in regional reconstruction efforts.

Through this renewed commitment, the Republic of Moldova and Japan aim to create a safe and innovative digital environment focused on sustainable development and economic prosperity.

The Republic of Moldova is hosting, from 2–3 May 2026, the visit of Japan’s Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications, Yoshimasa Hayashi, marking the first visit of a member of the Japanese Cabinet to our country. Yoshimasa Hayashi, who also serves as president of the Japan–Moldova parliamentary friendship group, is a prominent figure in Japanese politics, having previously held key positions such as Chief Cabinet Secretary and Minister for Foreign Affairs.

The official delegation will also include Shigeharu Aoyama, Minister of State for the Environment of Japan. The Japanese official’s agenda includes meetings with the leadership of our country: the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu; the Speaker of Parliament, Igor Grosu; the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister, Mihai Popșoi; the Minister of Internal Affairs, Daniela Misail-Nichitin; and the Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, Eugen Osmocheșu. A central point of the visit will be the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation in the digital field between the relevant ministries of the two countries. This document lays the foundations for a solid technological partnership designed to support the Republic of Moldova’s modernization and digitalization efforts with top-tier expertise from Japan.