José Manuel Bolieiro met with EPP Coordinator in European Parliament's Committee on Regional Development - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, received MEP Andrey Novakov, Coordinator of the European People's Party (EPP) in the European Parliament's Committee on Regional Development, at an audience held at the Sant'ana Palace.

The meeting focused on the theme of the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework and specific policies for the Outermost Regions, with special emphasis on the importance of ensuring instruments tailored to the unique characteristics of these regions.

The head of the Azorean Government emphasised the active role of the Azores in promoting their solutions, adapted to the islands' context and their status as outermost regions.

"Outermost regions, such as the Azores, are not asking for exceptions; they are asking for fairness. We need policies that acknowledge our geographical and economic conditions with specific measures tailored to the reality of the territory," stated José Manuel Bolieiro.

The consolidation of POSEI Agriculture, the creation of POSEI Fisheries and the implementation of POSEI Transport were highlighted as priorities to mitigate the permanent additional costs faced by the Region, both in terms of internal supply between islands and in the shipment and export of regional products.

"The competitiveness of our products depends on our ability to reach markets. If we do not recognise the additional costs of transport and distance, we are not ensuring fair conditions for development," he added.

The meeting took place at a time when the European Commission is preparing a new approach to Cohesion Policy. Therefore, it is essential to step up dialogue with European institutions and highlight the geostrategic role of Outermost Regions in consolidating the European Union's position in the world.

Andrey Novakov, Member of the European Parliament since 2014, elected by Bulgaria for the GERB party – Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria, expressed interest and willingness to continue listening to the proposals of Outermost Regions, acknowledging the contribution of the Azores to the construction of more inclusive European policies.