Moldova and Japan strengthen cooperation for faster response and modernized emergency services

The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) today hosted the visit of Japan’s Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications Yoshimasa Hayashi, as part of a dialogue dedicated to strengthening bilateral cooperation in the fields of emergency situations, security, and risk management.

Discussions with the Japanese delegation focused on the use of Japanese technologies and modern solutions that can improve reaction speed and coordination of interventions in emergency situations. The emphasis was placed on digitalization, integration of command systems, and the rapid exchange of data between responsible institutions.

Cooperation with Japan is already generating concrete results for citizens. Through projects implemented with the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations has been equipped with modern fire engines. The 19 units, distributed across 10 subdivisions in 6 localities, allow for faster and more efficient interventions, including for fires in high-rise buildings where access is difficult.

Japanese support has also contributed to equipping the Border Police with the tools needed to manage refugee flows and conduct rapid interventions, including in situations where backup power supply must be ensured in crisis conditions.

Moldova and Japan are examining the expansion of cooperation through the introduction of digital transformation solutions used by Japanese companies, so that interventions can be coordinated in real time from a single operational center.

Training programs and exchanges of experience for rescuers and border police officers are also being considered, including through the participation of Moldovan specialists in international programs dedicated to risk prevention, intervention, and the assessment of emergency situations.

The parties also addressed the regional security context, including the impact of the war in Ukraine, hybrid risks, and the need to strengthen capacities to combat disinformation.

Moldovan–Japanese cooperation is thus taking shape as a partnership focused on modernization, safety, and enhancing the capacity to protect citizens in the face of risk situations.

The Republic of Moldova is hosting, on 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 of Foreign Affairs. The official delegation will also include Shigeharu Aoyama, State Minister for the Environment of Japan.

The Japanese official’s agenda includes meetings with the leadership of our country: President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu; Speaker Igor Grosu; Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi; Minister of Internal Affairs Daniela Misail-Nichitin; and 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 field of digital technologies between the relevant ministries of the two countries. This document lays the foundations for a solid technological partnership aimed at supporting the Republic of Moldova’s modernization and digitalization efforts with top-tier Japanese expertise.