Vice-President of the Government received in audience Vice-Governor of Santa Catarina - Communication

Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional

On Monday, the Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, received in audience the Vice-Governor of the State of Santa Catarina, Marilisa Boehm, accompanied by the State Secretary for Tourism, Catiane Seif, at the Regional Directorate for European Affairs and External Cooperation.

The meeting focussed on strategic partnerships between the parties in the fields of innovation, technology, trade and tourism.

On the occasion, the possibility of establishing an air link between the Region and Florianópolis was discussed, based on the existing route between the capital of the State of Santa Catarina and Lisbon, on a stopover basis, as is currently the case with the Lisbon - Terceira - São Francisco route.

Opportunities to export Azorean products to Santa Catarina were also addressed, such as beef, which the state has a production deficit at the moment.

The Vice-President of the Regional Government also highlighted the prospects for creating partnerships with high-added value for the Azorean innovation sector, with the programme including a visit to NONAGON - São Miguel Science and Technology Park.

"We continue to develop our strategy for external cooperation and attract investment to the Region. The cultural and historical ties with Santa Catarina are a very strong bridge for us to work towards," emphasised Artur Lima.

"We want to deepen our links with Santa Catarina. We are working to find new markets for Azorean produce, continue to develop regional tourism, and meet with strategic partners for ongoing regional innovation," stated the Vice-President of the Government.

At the end of the reception, Artur Lima pointed out that "with aligned visions in strategic sectors for development, this rapprochement with the state of Santa Catarina represents an important step in promoting and attracting foreign investment."

Alongside science and technology, communications and the digital transition, the Vice-Presidency of the Regional Government of the Azores currently oversees European affairs and external cooperation, being responsible for attracting foreign investment.