Prime Minister Vasile Tofan was “replaced” today. The official met with 120 children and young people from the diaspora participating in the first session of this year’s government-run DiasporaOriginsReturns (DOR) Program, and one of the participants took his seat, TRIBUNA reports.

Participants in this year’s edition come from 20 countries, including France, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, Romania, Portugal, Spain, the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, and other countries. In his dialogue with the young people, Prime Minister Vasile Tofan emphasized the importance of maintaining a connection with the Republic of Moldova, regardless of where they were born, study, or gain experience:

“The fact that you are here at this camp shows that you care about your roots in the Republic of Moldova, and having this connection in the global world we live in is a great advantage. Hold on to your roots in the Republic of Moldova — they give you an anchor, and they matter more than you think.”

The head of government noted that the new generation is growing up in a different world that is constantly changing, and that the ability to adapt will be a decisive factor for success. In this context, Prime Minister Tofan encouraged the children and young people to embrace change, remain curious, and develop their ability to adapt.

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

The participants spoke about the countries they come from, their experience in the DOR Program, and their relationship with the Republic of Moldova. The meeting concluded with a question-and-answer session and an exchange of impressions, with the young people interested in the Government team’s priorities, the main reforms and current challenges, and ways to make the Republic of Moldova better known internationally.

The government-run DiasporaOriginsReturns (DOR) Program is implemented by the Government of the Republic of Moldova through the Diaspora Relations Bureau. It aims to strengthen the connection of children and young people from the diaspora with the Republic of Moldova through activities focused on learning about the country’s language, culture, traditions, and national values.

This year, the DOR Program is being held in two sessions and will bring together a total of 240 participants. Since the first edition in 2013, approximately 1,500 children and young people have taken part in the program.