José Manuel Bolieiro praises European Parliament's political support for Outermost Regions at crucial moment - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, met with the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, at a meeting that took on particular relevance in the current context of negotiations for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The meeting took place at the European Parliament headquarters and was also attended by the President of the Regional Government of Madeira, Miguel Albuquerque.

The meeting marked the end of a three-day visit to Brussels, entirely dedicated to defending the Outermost Regions, at a time when several proposals from the European Commission have raised serious concerns about the future of support for these territories.

During this visit, the Azores and Madeira endeavoured to strengthen the joint position of the nine Outermost Regions and ensure that the permanent specific characteristics of the outermost regions are fully taken into account in the negotiation process.

The meeting with Roberta Metsola provided an opportunity to discuss these concerns directly with the leadership of the European Parliament, an institution that will play a decisive role in the next stages of the MFF.

The head of the Azorean Government highlighted "the willingness and political motivation shown by the Parliament in defending the Outermost Regions." He added that this is particularly important at a time when financial adjustments are being discussed, which could have a significant impact on the Outermost Regions. For the President of the Azorean Government, it was clear that "President Metsola understands the reality and challenges facing these regions."

In addition to matters concerning European funding, the meeting also reinforced the need for the full implementation of Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which recognises the permanent specific characteristics of the Outermost Regions and provides for appropriate compensation mechanisms.

José Manuel Bolieiro pointed out that this article "is not just a legal rule, but a political guarantee that must be respected in practice," recalling that the costs of remoteness, distance from markets, and responsibilities as external borders of the European Union cannot be ignored when defining Community policies.

The meeting with Roberta Metsola completed a busy schedule that began with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Conference of Presidents of the Outermost Regions, where a joint declaration was signed calling for fair and balanced treatment in the next European financial cycle. On the second day, the document was presented to the Vice-President of the European Commission, Raffaele Fitto, at a time considered strategic for conveying the main concerns of these regions to the Commission.

José Manuel Bolieiro believes that this visit contributed to strengthening the position of the Outermost Regions in a European debate that is expected to be demanding but decisive for the future of these territories.

The meetings held over the three days will now be followed up with technical and political contacts to ensure that the demands presented are reflected in tangible results in the MFF negotiation process.