Forty-eight Kubota tractors have been delivered to Moldova with the support of the Japanese Government under the “Modernization of Agricultural Machineries and Equipment” (MAME) project.
Vladimir Bolea, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry, mentioned that thousands of units of agricultural machinery have reached farms in different parts of the country thanks to the support of the Japanese people. “Resilience and sustainability in agriculture can only be achieved through technology, innovation and continuous investment, and Japan is synonymous with these three essential factors”, he declared.
The Minister noted that the MAME loan is the most affordable financial instrument dedicated to the development of the agricultural sector currently existing and he would like it, together with the Japan International Cooperation Agency and development partners, to focus on two essential priorities in the immediate future: the development of irrigation systems and the consolidation of energy independence among farmers.
“Please use these tractors with maximum efficiency, to contribute to the economy of the Republic of Moldova”, was the message of the Japanese Ambassador Yoshihiro Katayama. The diplomat noted that this year we are celebrating 30 years of diplomatic relations. Japan began to offer economic assistance to Moldova starting in 1993 when it granted medicines and vaccines through international organizations. “Colleagues from the Government of Japan and JICA have worked without interruption and we will continue to do so. This fact denotes a strong friendship between our peoples", declared the ambassador.
Another 24 tractors, out of a total of 72 units purchased from the first installment of the loan agreement, are due to be delivered at the end of July.
The preferential loan granted by the Government of Japan under the MAME Project is for a period of 40 years, with an interest rate of 0.1% and a grace period of 12 years.
