Japanese support for Moldovan farmers will have long-term effects

Over 100 pieces of modern technology were offered to farmers through the Moldovan-Japanese Partner Fund, created within 2KR Project, and financed by the Japanese Government, Info-Prim Neo reports. Prime Minister Vlad Filat, who attended the event, expressed his sympathy and solidarity with the Japanese people in these difficult times, and his gratitude for the help offered by Japan over the years. Through the 2KR Project alone, which is known in every Moldovan village, the agriculture was provided with over 5000 units of machinery and other necessary equipment. The Prime Minister congratulated the farmers on having the opportunity to buy new technology at the beginning of season, thus improving their work. He bid them a fruitful farming year. Valeriu Bulgari, manager of the 2KR Project, said the 100 units included tractors (5 MTZs), Class Dominator combines (of €100,000), and equipment for multiannual plantations. Their overall cost is about 50 million lei. Half of the money was paid by farmers who ordered the machinery, and the rest by the Partner Fund. The budget of the Fund is based on previous sales within the project. “The buying formula is the same as in previous years: farmers pay an initial 50%, 25% the next year, and 25% the third one. If there are problems with payments, we negotiate and find alternative paying schemes. We’re flexible. Within 2KR Project, since 2001, 5000 units of machinery, including 3,500 tractors, 600 combines and other equipment, were purchased. Japanese donations rise to $18 million”, said Valeriu Bulgari. Andrei Tcaci, head of Valea Parjotei farming society, said he was happy with buying new technology in such advantageous conditions. “Our farm renewed its fleet of tractors and equipment with new units of local or foreign production. This will allow us obtain better results, better income and have a better life”, he said. Nicolae Kerostian, farmer from Congaz, thinks that buying farming equipment through 2KR Project and the Moldovan-Japanese Partner Fund offers a chance of modernization for smaller farms. He expressed his and other Gagauz farmers’ availability to help the Japanese people. “We want to encourage Japan; Moldovan farmers will always have words of praise for the Japanese people”, he added.