Artur Lima advocates European investment in data science and cybersecurity - Communication

Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional

The Vice-President of the Government, Artur Lima, chaired the closing session of the "Tech Trends 2025" Conference, promoted by MEO Empresas, on Thursday in Ponta Delgada.

The Vice-President of the Government began by recalling that the Azores are part of DETA. This international alliance brings together national and regional governments from around the world to discuss and promote challenges in adapting public policies to disruptive and emerging technologies.

"Artificial intelligence is transforming our society," Artur Lima stated, adding that this reality significantly affects competitiveness.

"Those who best master artificial intelligence will reap greater benefits and be more efficient in their actions," he stressed.

For the Vice-President of the Government, current geopolitical and technological developments have led the European Union to focus on its security.

"Europe was asleep, but now it has awoken to investment in security," he stressed.

Artur Lima pointed out that security and defence "are complementary areas" and, as such, "investment in security cannot be limited to armament."

"Europe can and must invest in these sectors," he continued. However, "it cannot compromise on social and cohesion matters," he warned.

The Vice-President also defended the need to invest in areas such as data science and cybersecurity.

"This is where the future of Europe lies," he emphasised.   

"Cybersecurity is now central to the security of us all. It is present in our daily lives and plays a crucial role in protecting private and corporate data. Therefore, it is essential to ensure its reinforcement, data protection and product reliability," stated the government official. 

At the closing ceremony, Artur Lima highlighted the technological, social and political relevance of the event, emphasising that "technology and humanity must walk a common path." 

The goal "is the development of human beings, so that they maintain control over machines and, in doing so, can protect humanity," he concluded.

The "Tech Trends 2025" Conference brought together experts, stakeholders and policymakers to discuss the future of strategic technology sectors such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.