José Manuel Bolieiro welcomes strengthened cooperation between National Government and Autonomous Regions - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, accompanied by the President of the Government of Madeira, Miguel Albuquerque, participated today in the meeting of the Council of Ministers chaired by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, held at the São Bento Palace in Lisbon.

This was an unprecedented moment in the history of Portuguese democracy, marking the first-ever participation of the Autonomous Regions in the meeting of the Council of Ministers. 

José Manuel Bolieiro emphasised the historic and symbolic importance of this event, highlighting the "importance of dialogue" between the National Government and the governments of the Azores and Madeira.

“This is a milestone for Portuguese autonomy and democracy. The presence of the governments of the Azores and Madeira in the Council of Ministers reflects respect, cooperation and political maturity,” he said.

The head of the Azorean Government sought to raise awareness among the National Government about the specific characteristics and challenges of the Autonomous Regions, emphasising the need for true social and territorial convergence.

“The Azores are a Region with needs, which requires national support and solidarity. Nevertheless, they are also a Region of opportunities. Our geography, which can sometimes be challenging, is also a strategic asset for Portugal and Europe in the maritime and space sectors,” he pointed out.

Among the topics discussed, particular attention was given to increasing transfers from the 2026 State Budget, including €150 million for RRP-funded projects, and the possibility of authorising and consolidating debt, concerning the settlement of arrears, for an amount of up to €75 million.

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro considered this meeting "the first of many." He announced that the first summit between the National Government and the Governments of the Azores and Madeira will take place in the Azores in 2026.

Luís Montenegro also announced the creation of a joint working group to review the Autonomous Regions Finance Act, with a view to submitting a new Regional Finance Act to Parliament in 2026, ensuring financial predictability, consistency and sufficiency.

José Manuel Bolieiro expressed confidence that the process will result in "a broadly consensual proposal." It will be based on the technical work conducted by Professor Eduardo Paz Ferreira at the request of the Azorean Government and endorsed by the Government of Madeira.

“This is a solution based on motivation and responsibility. I am as vigilant as I am confident in the work that will be done,” concluded the President of the Azorean Government.

This unprecedented meeting took place following a proposal submitted by the President of the Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, to the Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, who defended the importance of direct and structured dialogue between the National Government and the Governments of the Azores and Madeira.