The Regional Director for Communities, Paulo Teves, stressed the importance of community associations as a form of "promoting the full integration of Azorean emigrants" in Canada. The government official also called for a "greater
interaction between associations for a better use of resources and synergies."
 
Paulo Teves recently visited the Azorean communities residing in Canada and considered the Holy Spirit Festivities, which were celebrated at the House of the Azores of Ontario on February 23, as a manifestation of unity, "whose values are at the root of the solidarity lived among Azoreans."

In this regard, the government official considered that the celebration of 40th anniversary of "Clube Asas do Atlântico" in the city of Toronto, which he also attended, represents "the willingness to preserve the identity of the Azorean people, a fact that deserves the greatest admiration, respect and a profound gratitude."

The commitment of the Government in promoting the Region, especially among youngsters of Azorean descent, is a contribution to the training of future association leaders was also restated by the Regional Director for Communities during the meetings he held with institutions and the boards of the House of the Azores of Ontario and "Amor da Pátria."

During his visit to Canada, Paulo Teves also had the opportunity to reiterate the availability of the Azorean Government to promote joint projects with the aim of promoting the quality of life of Azorean emigrants residing in this country.

In this first visit to Canada, the Regional Director for Communities visited the provinces of Quebec, Manitoba, British Columbia and Ontario.