Artur Lima highlights role of Artificial Intelligence as "catalyst for economic, social and environmental progress" - Communication

Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional

The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, presided over the opening session of the "AI & Business" event on Friday, which took place at NONAGON - São Miguel Science and Technology Park, in Lagoa.

The event brought together companies, experts, researchers and decision-makers to discuss the progress of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its implications for the business sector.

"It is events like this that demonstrate that we are evolving at a dizzying speed, and that if we fail to keep up, we will miss the boat," stated the Vice-President of the Government.

In this regard, Artur Lima stressed that the Regional Government is undertaking efforts to ensure that the entire Region keeps pace with the digital transition, through profound reforms in regional IT systems, as well as promoting increased connectivity between the Azores and the world.

"Technology is no longer just a tool; it has become a strategic partner in the way we think, work and create value," stated the government official. He added that "Artificial Intelligence is at the heart of this transformation, changing the way companies understand and interact with their customers, optimise processes and make decisions."

However, the Vice-President stressed that Artificial Intelligence "does not replace, nor should it ever replace, human vision."

This technology "intends to enhance human strategy, creativity and ethics, freeing up time and resources to innovate, solve complex problems and create value," he emphasised.

Considering the current context marked by growing technological disruption, Artur Lima also noted that the companies of the future will be those capable of combining the power of data, AI technology and human sensitivity, achieving efficiency gains and flexibility to adapt to constantly changing markets.

"Today, we have the opportunity and responsibility to use this technology as a catalyst for economic, social and environmental progress," he noted.

During his speech, the Vice-President of the Government also expressed his confidence that the event will strengthen the relations of those present with the new AI methods and techniques.

"Let us seize this moment to build smarter, more humane and better prepared companies for the future, as it is important to anticipate, provide training and empower, so that we can take action and converge," concluded Artur Lima.

Organised by Nonagon - São Miguel Science and Technology Park, "AI & Business" is part of the "Training and Digital Transformation of Companies in the Azores (C16-i05-RAA)" project under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP).