José Manuel Bolieiro exchanged farewell greetings with Commander of the Azores Air Zone - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, met with Major General António Moldão, the Commander of the Azores Air Zone, during a farewell audience held on Tuesday at the German Colony in Horta.

The head of the Azorean Government conveyed the Regional Government's gratitude for Major General António Moldão's "excellent performance." In this regard, he emphasised that his leadership contributed "to raising awareness and understanding of the importance and significance of the Azores within Portugal's maritime geography and the country's Atlantic centrality."

The President of the Government highlighted the significance of Air Base No. 4 on Terceira Island in providing services to the Azorean population, particularly in search and rescue operations. He acknowledged the "enormous operational effort made by the Air Force for the benefit of the population."

The audience was also an opportunity for joint reflection on the geostrategic and geopolitical value of Air Base No. 4, in the national context, within the framework of the Atlantic Alliance and the bilateral agreement between Portugal and the United States of America.

José Manuel Bolieiro extended his best wishes for success to Major General António Moldão in his new professional endeavours, expressing hope that he "will continue to be a friend and advocate for the interests of the Azores and Portugal in the Atlantic."

António Moldão expressed his gratitude for the honour and emphasised his pride in commanding the Azores Air Zone. He highlighted the crucial role of the Air Force in supporting the population and strengthening the strategic position of the Region.