Regional Government reinforces maritime surveillance with protocol with Navy and National Maritime Authority - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, chaired today the signing ceremony of a protocol to reinforce cooperation between the Regional Government, the Navy and the National Maritime Authority regarding the use of maritime surveillance systems in the Region.

This agreement, which he considered "a significant milestone in the protection of the Azores sea," symbolises the commitment to the preservation and sustainable management of maritime resources as well as the safety and efficiency of maritime operations.

The ceremony was attended by Commodore Paulo Jorge da Conceição Lopes, Commander of the Azores Maritime Zone, who, together with the President of the Regional Government, signed the terms of the agreement.

This protocol lays down the conditions for the joint use of advanced control, monitoring and surveillance technologies, contributing to reinforcing surveillance of fishing activities in sensitive and strategic areas.

The protocol was developed in synergy with the Fisheries Federation in a "joint effort" to ensure legal compliance in fishing activities and promote good maritime practices.

According to José Manuel Bolieiro, this cooperation demonstrates "a shared commitment to the protection and sustainable use of maritime resources."

In recent years, the Azores have significantly invested in installing modern video surveillance systems and coastal radars, essential for monitoring and preserving marine species. Co-financed by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), this equipment has been installed in infrastructures managed by the Maritime Authority, allowing greater control over priority areas for scientific research and conservation.

In addition to fisheries surveillance, these systems boost regional capabilities in search and rescue actions. They also improve the control of marine pollution, expanding the functionalities of the equipment, increasing safety and promoting environmental protection in the archipelago.