With another Christmas coming, this is a time of celebration, hope and trust.
 
It is a time of celebration, not only for what we have done but also for what is to come.
 
It is a time of hope that is well symbolised by the birth, by the beginning and by a new cycle.
 
It is a time of confidence in the ability that human beings show to become better, more understanding, supportive and more fraternal.
 
As a new year will begin soon, this is also a time when we look at the path we have followed individually as well as at the path we have followed as a Region and as a People.
 
The most recent years were challenging, difficult and complex. They have put to the test our ability to win and overcome the challenges and obstacles we had to face.
 
Today, the most varied economic and social indicators show a path of constant and sustainable recovery, job creation, business creation and wealth generation in our Region. Therefore, it is time for us to celebrate.
 
But on Christmas Eve, I would like to address, first and foremost, the Azoreans for whom this time is still overshadowed by the suffering caused by illness, the anguish of unemployment or, simply, by loneliness.
 
On this Christmas night, I would like to address, firstly, the Azoreans for whom this time is not a time of joy, celebration or comfort.
 
We should be aware of how much we have done, namely the jobs we have already created, the elderly we have helped or those who have received support and the desired response in illness. However, this does not mean forgetting those who are still seeking employment, those still suffering in their illness or those seeking the deserved dignity and comfort after giving so much to our Region.
 
On this Christmas night, my message goes is mainly addrwessed to the Azoreans who are still in these situations.
 
What I want to tell you is, first of all, that you are not alone!
 
I know that you are counting on our Government to help you through these difficult times.
 
I know that our Government is working to create opportunities to help solving what has yet to be solved.
 
It is, therefore, a message of Hope and Confidence in the ability to stand up to each challenge and to overcome them with the willingness that we have constantly demonstrated as a People.
 
This is also the time of Solidarity.
 
Solidarity is not solely expressed by the ambition of leaving no one behind in this journey towards progress and development. It is also based on everyone's responsibility to look after all citizens.
 
This is also what consolidates a People.
 
This is also what the Azorean People do.
 
May this Christmas be the opportunity to renew our strength, to strengthen our spirit with Hope and Trust, and to renew our Commitment to the Future.
 
To all Azoreans by birth or by heart, wherever they may be, here or in our Diaspora, I wish on my behalf as well as on behalf of my family and of the Regional Government a Merry Christmas and a New Year full of achievements and success.