José Manuel Bolieiro highlights "new opportunities" for the Azores during conference at University of Coimbra - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Azorean Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, was at the University of Coimbra on Monday, where he delivered a lecture on "The Azores – seas of our history. Ocean of our future," aimed at dozens of young university students. It focused on the opportunities opening up for the Azores in a context of growing importance of knowledge, science and the sea.

The head of the Azorean Government traced a path between the history and future of the Azores, emphasising the archipelago's deep connection with the ocean and how this maritime heritage continues to shape the Region's strategic choices. The President of the Government noted that the sea is no longer an aspect of our identity, but is increasingly establishing itself as a "space for innovation, knowledge and value creation."

José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted the investment made by the Regional Government in areas such as maritime scientific research, the blue economy, technological innovation and environmental sustainability, emphasising that these investments reinforce the Region's strategic autonomy and its capacity to lead projects with national and European impact.

"The Azores are now in a position to take on greater responsibilities in the Atlantic as they have invested in knowledge and people," he said.

The President of the Government also highlighted that these public policies are creating "new opportunities," not only economically but also socially and scientifically, fostering skilled employment as well as attracting talent and cooperation with national and international universities and research centres.

José Manuel Bolieiro stressed the importance of young people's role in building the Region's future, defending that investment in science, technology and sustainability only makes sense if it is matched by the active participation of the younger generations.

"The future of the Azores is built with young people who are qualified, involved and aware of the value of the territory they have in their hands," he said.

The head of the Azorean Government also emphasised that the Azores' leadership in the Atlantic region is the result of consistent and continuous work, based on institutional cooperation, dialogue and the responsible promotion of the sea as a strategic asset for Portugal and the European Union.

The closing ceremony was led by Bruna Garcia, representing JAUPA, and the Rector of the University of Coimbra, followed by a cultural moment with a performance by Fado de Coimbra and a gathering with young Azoreans, promoted by JAUPA, with the Azorean academic community in Coimbra.

The closing ceremony was led by Bruna Garcia, representing JAUPA, along with the Rector of the University of Coimbra. This was followed by a cultural moment featuring a performance by Fado de Coimbra and a gathering promoted by JAUPA that brought together the Azorean academic community in Coimbra.