The President of the Government of the Azores began today a visit to the Autonomous Region of Madeira, highlighting, after his arrival in Funchal, the importance of this official visit for the two autonomous regions.
 
"The importance of this visit is fundamentally concerned with what it means for both autonomous regions. It is important in itself, not just in terms of what it can mean for third parties," said Vasco Cordeiro.
 
Speaking to journalists, the President of the Government of the Azores recalled that this official visit to Madeira follows the one that made by President Miguel Albuquerque to the Autonomous Region of the Azores about two years ago. It gave a new impetus to cooperation between both autonomous regions.
 
"A series of protocols were signed during the visit to the Azores as well as a Joint Declaration that formalised these protocols. During this visit, we will have the opportunity to assess the current situation of these protocols and, naturally, search for new areas for cooperation, to which are deeply committed," stressed Vasco Cordeiro.
 
The Azorean delegation includes, at the invitation of Vasco Cordeiro, social partners linked to business and production sectors, namely the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Azores, the Azores Agricultural Federation and the Azores Fisheries Federation.
 
Vasco Cordeiro is also accompanied by the Vice-Presidency of the Government, Sérgio Ávila, the Regional Secretary for the Sea, Science and Technology, Gui Menezes, the Regional Secretary for Health, Rui Luís, and the Regional Assistant Secretary of the Presidency for External Relations, Rui Bettencourt.