Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional
Artur Lima highlights in Berlin Azores' role as geopolitical and economic driving force for Portugal's global presence
Artur Lima highlights in Berlin Azores' role as geopolitical and economic driving force for Portugal's global presence
Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
“Drive Safe” campaign raised awareness among 200 drivers across six islands in the Azores
“Drive Safe” campaign raised awareness among 200 drivers across six islands in the Azores
Presidência do Governo Regional
Azores regarded as “strategic territory” during Portugal Day celebrations, says José Manuel Bolieiro
Azores regarded as “strategic territory” during Portugal Day celebrations, says José Manuel Bolieiro
Secretaria Regional da Educação, Cultura e Desporto
Apps for Good Açores Regional Meeting brought together young innovators at Ponta Delgada Regional Conservatory
Apps for Good Açores Regional Meeting brought together young innovators at Ponta Delgada Regional Conservatory
Nota de Imprensa
June 12, 2026 Artur Lima highlights in Berlin Azores' role as geopolitical and economic driving force for Portugal's global presence As part of the celebrations of Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities Day, held at the Portuguese Embassy in Berlin, the Vice-President of the Regional Government highlighted the strategic importance of the Azores for Portugal’s global standing. Speaking to an audience of over 200 people, comprising members of the Portuguese community in Germany, diplomats and entrepreneurs, Artur Lima emphasised that the archipelago transforms Portugal into a true maritime power and serves as an irreplaceable bridge between Europe and the Americas. “Celebrating Portugal without looking to the Atlantic would be to forget our very origins. Therefore, I have come to speak to you of how Portugal extends Europe out into the middle of the ocean: I have come to speak to you of the Azores,” stated Artur Lima. In this regard, he utterly rejected the perception of the islands as isolated: “The Azores have never been on the periphery of Portugal; they were, and remain, its Atlantic heart.” After highlighting the historical importance the Azores have had for Portugal, the focus shifted to the present and the future. “The Azores are now the research hub for deep-sea science, and we are positioning ourselves at the forefront of the European space sector. We are the ultimate living laboratory for marine biotechnology, underwater robotics and the sustainable exploitation of ocean resources, as well as a leading force in safeguarding marine biodiversity and environmental sustainability,” he emphasised. During his speech, the Vice-President of the Government launched a challenge to the entrepreneurs and investors present, inviting them to invest in the Azores. “Portugal’s future is shaped from here: looking towards the horizon, always with the ambition of those who know that the sea does not separate us, but rather unites us. I assure the entrepreneurs and investors here today that we are ready to welcome your vision, your investment and your boldness,” he stressed. At the invitation of the Portuguese Ambassador to Berlin, Madalena Fischer, the Autonomous Region of the Azores, represented by the Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, took part in the celebrations of Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities Day, alongside the Secretary of State for European Affairs, Inês Domingos. The event also included a display of Azorean handicrafts and products, promoted with the support and participation of Invest in Azores, Azores Brand, the Azores Tourism and Hospitality School, and VisitAzores.
June 12, 2026 Artur Lima highlights in Berlin Azores' role as geopolitical and economic driving force for Portugal's global presence As part of the celebrations of Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities Day, held at the Portuguese Embassy in Berlin, the Vice-President of the Regional Government highlighted the strategic importance of the Azores for Portugal’s global standing. Speaking to an audience of over 200 people, comprising members of the Portuguese community in Germany, diplomats and entrepreneurs, Artur Lima emphasised that the archipelago transforms Portugal into a true maritime power and serves as an irreplaceable bridge between Europe and the Americas. “Celebrating Portugal without looking to the Atlantic would be to forget our very origins. Therefore, I have come to speak to you of how Portugal extends Europe out into the middle of the ocean: I have come to speak to you of the Azores,” stated Artur Lima. In this regard, he utterly rejected the perception of the islands as isolated: “The Azores have never been on the periphery of Portugal; they were, and remain, its Atlantic heart.” After highlighting the historical importance the Azores have had for Portugal, the focus shifted to the present and the future. “The Azores are now the research hub for deep-sea science, and we are positioning ourselves at the forefront of the European space sector. We are the ultimate living laboratory for marine biotechnology, underwater robotics and the sustainable exploitation of ocean resources, as well as a leading force in safeguarding marine biodiversity and environmental sustainability,” he emphasised. During his speech, the Vice-President of the Government launched a challenge to the entrepreneurs and investors present, inviting them to invest in the Azores. “Portugal’s future is shaped from here: looking towards the horizon, always with the ambition of those who know that the sea does not separate us, but rather unites us. I assure the entrepreneurs and investors here today that we are ready to welcome your vision, your investment and your boldness,” he stressed. At the invitation of the Portuguese Ambassador to Berlin, Madalena Fischer, the Autonomous Region of the Azores, represented by the Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, took part in the celebrations of Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities Day, alongside the Secretary of State for European Affairs, Inês Domingos. The event also included a display of Azorean handicrafts and products, promoted with the support and participation of Invest in Azores, Azores Brand, the Azores Tourism and Hospitality School, and VisitAzores.
Nota de Imprensa
June 11, 2026 “Drive Safe” campaign raised awareness among 200 drivers across six islands in the Azores The road safety awareness campaign “Drive Safe,” which ran from June 2 to 8, covered six islands in the archipelago of the Azores, reaching around 200 drivers. Organised by the Public Security Police (PSP), in collaboration with the Regional Sub-directorate for Land Transport, under the administration of the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, the initiative took place on the islands of São Miguel, Terceira, São Jorge, Graciosa, Faial and Flores. The activities were intended to promote responsible behaviour on the road, encouraging speed reduction and safe driving. The campaign was primarily intended to raise drivers’ awareness of the risks associated with speeding – one of the main causes of road accidents – and promote safer and defensive driving, encouraging compliance with speed limits. Reducing accidents on regional roads, raising awareness of the importance of safety for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, and fostering a spirit of responsibility and prevention were other goals of this campaign, thereby contributing to safer roads in the Azores. Overall, the campaign reached 193 drivers, with 45 in São Miguel, 20 in Terceira, 15 in São Jorge, 10 in Graciosa, 48 in Faial and 55 in Flores. The “Drive Safe” campaign was well received by motorists, raising awareness of the importance of responsible and safe driving. This initiative is part of a series of measures aimed at promoting road safety in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, with a view to reducing the number of accidents and protecting lives.
June 11, 2026 “Drive Safe” campaign raised awareness among 200 drivers across six islands in the Azores The road safety awareness campaign “Drive Safe,” which ran from June 2 to 8, covered six islands in the archipelago of the Azores, reaching around 200 drivers. Organised by the Public Security Police (PSP), in collaboration with the Regional Sub-directorate for Land Transport, under the administration of the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, the initiative took place on the islands of São Miguel, Terceira, São Jorge, Graciosa, Faial and Flores. The activities were intended to promote responsible behaviour on the road, encouraging speed reduction and safe driving. The campaign was primarily intended to raise drivers’ awareness of the risks associated with speeding – one of the main causes of road accidents – and promote safer and defensive driving, encouraging compliance with speed limits. Reducing accidents on regional roads, raising awareness of the importance of safety for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, and fostering a spirit of responsibility and prevention were other goals of this campaign, thereby contributing to safer roads in the Azores. Overall, the campaign reached 193 drivers, with 45 in São Miguel, 20 in Terceira, 15 in São Jorge, 10 in Graciosa, 48 in Faial and 55 in Flores. The “Drive Safe” campaign was well received by motorists, raising awareness of the importance of responsible and safe driving. This initiative is part of a series of measures aimed at promoting road safety in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, with a view to reducing the number of accidents and protecting lives.
Nota de Imprensa
June 10, 2026 Azores regarded as “strategic territory” during Portugal Day celebrations, says José Manuel Bolieiro The President of the Regional Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, participated today in the ceremonies marking Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities Day, which were held in Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira Island. On the occasion, he highlighted the importance of the speeches delivered during the official session and the “recognition of the Azores’ significance.” The head of the Azorean Government welcomed the speeches delivered, believing that they reinforced the Azores’ standing in both the national and international contexts. “The speeches emphasised the importance of our Region and its strategic significance,” he noted. José Manuel Bolieiro also considered that the selection of the Azores to host this year’s celebrations “resonates deeply with the Azorean people,” considering it as a sign of recognition of the Region’s role in the Atlantic presence of Portugal. The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the archipelago’s geographical position and its global geopolitical relevance, defending that the Azores are instrumental in linking different continents and strategic areas. “We regard our identity as a people and a territory as one of peace, cosmopolitanism and connection with the Western world,” he said. José Manuel Bolieiro also emphasised that the Region serves as a bridge linking three continents, strengthening relations with Europe, the Americas and Africa. It also plays a coordinating role in the Atlantic region. “This location on Terceira Island and in the Azores was a very good choice,” he declared, also expressing his gratitude for the President of the Republic’s decision to hold the June 10 celebrations there. The President of the Regional Government of the Azores highlighted that the official speeches confirmed the “growing recognition” of the Azores’ strategic importance, when the Region celebrates 50 years of political autonomy.
June 10, 2026 Azores regarded as “strategic territory” during Portugal Day celebrations, says José Manuel Bolieiro The President of the Regional Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, participated today in the ceremonies marking Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities Day, which were held in Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira Island. On the occasion, he highlighted the importance of the speeches delivered during the official session and the “recognition of the Azores’ significance.” The head of the Azorean Government welcomed the speeches delivered, believing that they reinforced the Azores’ standing in both the national and international contexts. “The speeches emphasised the importance of our Region and its strategic significance,” he noted. José Manuel Bolieiro also considered that the selection of the Azores to host this year’s celebrations “resonates deeply with the Azorean people,” considering it as a sign of recognition of the Region’s role in the Atlantic presence of Portugal. The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the archipelago’s geographical position and its global geopolitical relevance, defending that the Azores are instrumental in linking different continents and strategic areas. “We regard our identity as a people and a territory as one of peace, cosmopolitanism and connection with the Western world,” he said. José Manuel Bolieiro also emphasised that the Region serves as a bridge linking three continents, strengthening relations with Europe, the Americas and Africa. It also plays a coordinating role in the Atlantic region. “This location on Terceira Island and in the Azores was a very good choice,” he declared, also expressing his gratitude for the President of the Republic’s decision to hold the June 10 celebrations there. The President of the Regional Government of the Azores highlighted that the official speeches confirmed the “growing recognition” of the Azores’ strategic importance, when the Region celebrates 50 years of political autonomy.
Nota de Imprensa
June 10, 2026 Apps for Good Açores Regional Meeting brought together young innovators at Ponta Delgada Regional Conservatory This week, the Ponta Delgada Regional Conservatory hosted the Regional Apps for Good Açores Meeting, an initiative organised by the Regional Directorate for Education and Educational Administration (DREAE) as part of the implementation of the Apps for Good programme in schools across the Autonomous Region of the Azores. In the 2026 edition, 11 teams from seven schools on the islands of São Miguel, Pico and Terceira are participating. The projects presented covered social, environmental, and educational areas, demonstrating young Azoreans' ability to identify challenges and propose innovative technological solutions. Since the 2017/2018 academic year, this department has been developing the programme in partnership with CDI Portugal – Centre of Digital Inclusion, an NGO dedicated to social and digital inclusion and innovation, providing students with opportunities to develop digital, creative and entrepreneurial skills. Apps for Good challenged teams of students from middle to secondary school to design mobile apps that address social needs identified in their communities, within the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Throughout the school year, participants worked on a project methodology divided into five stages, supported by an online platform. The regional meetings are valuable opportunities to share and evaluate the projects developed, leading to the selection of the finalist teams that will represent the Region at the national event, usually held in September. Among the solutions in competition were the following projects: Zen Sénior, from Canto da Maia Basic Education School; Encontra PET, from Capelas Basic Education School; Caritas Share, É Canja!!, Healthy Gamers, Mind Bloom and Floresta da Esperança, from Rabo de Peixe Basic Education School; ECOKIDS, from Madalena Basic Education and Secondary School; Elite Fishing, from São Roque do Pico Basic Education and Secondary School; Gravidez Informada, from Tomás de Borba Basic Education and Secondary School; and TravelBuddy, from Jerónimo Emiliano de Andrade Secondary School. The awards for Basic Education School Finalist, Secondary School Finalist and the People’s Choice Award were presented during the ceremony.
June 10, 2026 Apps for Good Açores Regional Meeting brought together young innovators at Ponta Delgada Regional Conservatory This week, the Ponta Delgada Regional Conservatory hosted the Regional Apps for Good Açores Meeting, an initiative organised by the Regional Directorate for Education and Educational Administration (DREAE) as part of the implementation of the Apps for Good programme in schools across the Autonomous Region of the Azores. In the 2026 edition, 11 teams from seven schools on the islands of São Miguel, Pico and Terceira are participating. The projects presented covered social, environmental, and educational areas, demonstrating young Azoreans' ability to identify challenges and propose innovative technological solutions. Since the 2017/2018 academic year, this department has been developing the programme in partnership with CDI Portugal – Centre of Digital Inclusion, an NGO dedicated to social and digital inclusion and innovation, providing students with opportunities to develop digital, creative and entrepreneurial skills. Apps for Good challenged teams of students from middle to secondary school to design mobile apps that address social needs identified in their communities, within the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Throughout the school year, participants worked on a project methodology divided into five stages, supported by an online platform. The regional meetings are valuable opportunities to share and evaluate the projects developed, leading to the selection of the finalist teams that will represent the Region at the national event, usually held in September. Among the solutions in competition were the following projects: Zen Sénior, from Canto da Maia Basic Education School; Encontra PET, from Capelas Basic Education School; Caritas Share, É Canja!!, Healthy Gamers, Mind Bloom and Floresta da Esperança, from Rabo de Peixe Basic Education School; ECOKIDS, from Madalena Basic Education and Secondary School; Elite Fishing, from São Roque do Pico Basic Education and Secondary School; Gravidez Informada, from Tomás de Borba Basic Education and Secondary School; and TravelBuddy, from Jerónimo Emiliano de Andrade Secondary School. The awards for Basic Education School Finalist, Secondary School Finalist and the People’s Choice Award were presented during the ceremony.
Nota de Imprensa
June 9, 2026 Press release Following the statements made by the CHEGA/Açores Parliamentary Group regarding housing in the Terra Chã neighbourhood in Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira Island, the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment wishes to clarify the following: 1. On January 29, 2025, pursuant to an Order issued by the Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, authorisation was granted to launch the tender procedure for the “Works Contract for the 2nd phase of the Urban and Housing Redevelopment of the Terra Chã neighbourhood, including the construction of infrastructure in the southern zone and the construction of 48 dwellings.” This was carried out by means of an internationally advertised public tender, with a base price of €7,838,247.66 and a completion period of 450 days, within the scope of the RRP, and was therefore exempt from project review; 2. Although the price per square metre in this tender is higher [€1,508.70/m²] than the amount paid under the RRP and higher than the works contract price of other works carried out and currently underway on the same island and of a similar nature, no proposals were received from construction companies, thereby making it impossible to carry out this works contract as scheduled in the Recovery and Resilience Plan; 3. Given the lack of responses from the construction sector regarding the implementation of this project within the deadline set out in the RRP, the Government of the Azores has sought an alternative funding source for its implementation, having achieved this goal through the Azores 2030 Operational Programme; 4. The project review is currently underway, and this will be followed by the launch of an international public tender for the construction contract, later this year; 5. This Regional Government’s investment in housing is undeniable. As far as Terceira Island is concerned, there has been an unprecedented investment in the public housing stock, specifically in improving the housing supply and living conditions for families. This investment of over €25 million has resulted in 76 new properties, including the houses built in the São Brás housing development, and 192 refurbishment projects, including the Nossa Senhora de Fátima and Nascer do Sol neighbourhoods. 6. In view of the above, the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment categorically refutes the accusation that RRP funds were wasted on investment in the Terra Chã neighbourhood.
June 9, 2026 Press release Following the statements made by the CHEGA/Açores Parliamentary Group regarding housing in the Terra Chã neighbourhood in Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira Island, the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment wishes to clarify the following: 1. On January 29, 2025, pursuant to an Order issued by the Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, authorisation was granted to launch the tender procedure for the “Works Contract for the 2nd phase of the Urban and Housing Redevelopment of the Terra Chã neighbourhood, including the construction of infrastructure in the southern zone and the construction of 48 dwellings.” This was carried out by means of an internationally advertised public tender, with a base price of €7,838,247.66 and a completion period of 450 days, within the scope of the RRP, and was therefore exempt from project review; 2. Although the price per square metre in this tender is higher [€1,508.70/m²] than the amount paid under the RRP and higher than the works contract price of other works carried out and currently underway on the same island and of a similar nature, no proposals were received from construction companies, thereby making it impossible to carry out this works contract as scheduled in the Recovery and Resilience Plan; 3. Given the lack of responses from the construction sector regarding the implementation of this project within the deadline set out in the RRP, the Government of the Azores has sought an alternative funding source for its implementation, having achieved this goal through the Azores 2030 Operational Programme; 4. The project review is currently underway, and this will be followed by the launch of an international public tender for the construction contract, later this year; 5. This Regional Government’s investment in housing is undeniable. As far as Terceira Island is concerned, there has been an unprecedented investment in the public housing stock, specifically in improving the housing supply and living conditions for families. This investment of over €25 million has resulted in 76 new properties, including the houses built in the São Brás housing development, and 192 refurbishment projects, including the Nossa Senhora de Fátima and Nascer do Sol neighbourhoods. 6. In view of the above, the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment categorically refutes the accusation that RRP funds were wasted on investment in the Terra Chã neighbourhood.
