Prime Minister met with DOR Program participants

Prime Minister Vasile Tofan met today with 120 children and young people of the diaspora, participants in the first group this year of the governmental program Diaspora*Origin*Return (DOR). The discussion focused on young people’s connection with the Republic of Moldova, the experience gained within the program, and the opportunities our country wants to offer the new generation.

The participants in this year’s edition come from 20 countries, including France, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, Romania, Portugal, Spain, the United States of America, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, and other states. In his dialogue with the young people, Prime Minister Vasile Tofan underlined the importance of maintaining the connection with the Republic of Moldova, regardless of where they were born, study, or gain experience: “The fact that you are at this camp shows that you care about your roots in the Republic of Moldova, and the fact that you have this connection, in the global world in which we live, is a great advantage. Hold on to your roots from the Republic of Moldova – this gives you an anchor and matters more than you think.”

The official noted that the new generation is growing up in a different world, one that is constantly changing, and that adaptability will be a decisive factor for success. In this regard, Prime Minister Tofan urged children and young people to be open to change, to stay curious, and to cultivate their ability to adapt.

“I also encourage my own children to take risks, to dare and, including, to fail. It is very important to be tolerant of failures, because only through failures can we train our action algorithm – how to be successful in a world that is changing very rapidly. Do not shy away from small risks, from challenges and mistakes; only in this way can you succeed,” said the Prime Minister.

The participants spoke about the countries they come from, their experience in the DOR Program, and the relationship they have with the Republic of Moldova. The meeting ended with an exchange of questions and impressions, with young people showing interest in the priorities of the government team, the main reforms and current challenges, and the ways in which we can make the Republic of Moldova better known abroad.

DOR Program is implemented by the Government of the Republic of Moldova, through the Diaspora Relations Bureau, and aims to strengthen the connection of children and young people from the diaspora with the Republic of Moldova through activities that help them learn the language, culture, traditions, and national values.

This year, the DOR Program is being held in two groups and will gather a total of 240 participants. From the first edition in 2013 until now, approximately 1,500 children and young people have taken part in the program.