Google Cable is "future project" focused on the Azores, highlights José Manuel Bolieiro

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, pointed out that the installation of Google's Nuvem subsea cable represents a ‘project for the future focused on the Azores.’ The presentation of the project today is a "day of happiness."

Speaking at the Conceição Palace in Ponta Delgada, during the official presentation of the project, José Manuel Bolieiro praised Google's "strategic vision," which presents a "private investment with public value" that is "more about the future than the present."

The Regional Government approved the construction of Google's subsea fibre optic cable this week, citing its significant public interest. This project will consolidate the Region's centrality in the Atlantic.

"We have a territory limited to the terrestrial component, the country itself has a residual size and the Azores are a remote region. However, if we combine the territorial dimension with the maritime and spatial dimensions, then Portugal and the Azores already have a strong geographical centrality," emphasised José Manuel Bolieiro.

The President of the Government also pointed out the role of "security and trust" that the Armed Forces play in this activity, highlighting the "immediate and real knowledge" of information transmitted by cables such as the Nuvem.

"I am proud of the history of the Azores, but I believe the Azores have more of a future than a past with this type of initiative," stated the President of the Government.

Speaking to journalists at the end of the session, José Manuel Bolieiro stated that the Regional Government had maintained the talks with Google for the cable linking the United States to Europe in the Azores in "secrecy at all times."

In addition to the Managing Director of Google Portugal, Bernardo Correia, the session was attended by the President of ANACOM, Sandra Maximiano, the US Consul in the Azores, Margaret C. Campbell, and several mayors from São Miguel Island, among other guests.