Portal da Açorianidade

The President of the Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, ended his official visit to Bermuda, an occasion that marked 175 years of Azorean emigration to the territory. Following this trip, José Manuel Bolieiro met with the Premier of Bermuda, David Burt, accompanied by the Deputy Premier, Walter Roban, and the Minister of Transport, Wayne Furbert. During the meeting, the desire to deepen friendship and cooperation between the two North Atlantic archipelagos was reinforced. The leader of the Azorean Executive highlighted the importance of the sea as “a strategic asset” for both archipelagos, referring to Bermuda’s potential to benefit from the scientific knowledge and geostrategic position of the Azores. “The Azores are ready to lead by example in the knowledge and management of the sea,” he said, stressing the role of the Azores as a central platform for the blue economy and innovation in the Atlantic. The visit opened the door to future collaboration in the areas of science and technology, especially in projects linked to space research and technological innovation. According to José Manuel Bolieiro, the aim is to “consolidate the Azores as a reference in the Atlantic”, focusing on synergies that can benefit both archipelagos. He also reiterated his invitation to Premier David Burt to visit the Azores, in an initiative to deepen the relationship between the two regions. Among the ideas discussed was the possibility of establishing direct flights between the Azores and Bermuda, in order to facilitate the strengthening of cultural and economic ties. Finally, José Manuel Bolieiro pledged to broker a solution for the mutual recognition of driving licenses between Portugal and Bermuda, an issue that has affected the mobility of citizens from both territories. “I am willing to broker whatever solution is possible between the Portuguese and Bermudian governments,” he concluded.