The Regional Secretary for Tourism and Transport revealed that the budget of the tourism sector for 2014 "exceeds 25 million Euros," highlighting this "determined effort" undertaken by the Azorean Government to ensure that this sector "actively contributes to the development of the Region."

Speaking at the closing session of Expresso BPI Golf Cup on Saturday night, Vítor Fraga stressed that the promotion and qualification of the tourism offer are two key factors in "the sustained development of this sector." The government official added that these two aspects "are clearly defined in the Regional Plan and Budget for the year 2014."

The Regional Secretary recalled that the Azores "have become a quality destination." Our goal is to reach "a high level of excellence that can make a difference in tourist destinations" by jointly working with "public and private entities on a daily basis."

"Building a path together is half the battle to achieve success," stressed the government official.

Moreover, Vítor Fraga announced the intention of "continuing to promote the organisation of new events" as this "is an area with a great potential for opportunities."

Accordingly, the Regional Secretary recalled that the Azores will host the national APAVT Congress (Portuguese Association of Travel Agencies and Tourism), a major event that will bring together "over 500 participants."

This event represents "another opportunity we have to seize in order to promote our destination, enhance our visibility and disseminate the Azores among travel agents so that they can help us along this journey, which is not an easy one. Nevertheless, we are sure that with our effort, determination and dedication, we will achieve good results," stated the Regional Secretary.

In this context, reminded Vítor Fraga, the Azores will be the preferred destination of the European Travel Agents' and Tour Operators' Associations (ECTAA) in 2014, being another important moment  for our assertion in an international context."

"In the Azores, we can count on the support of everyone and we leave no one behind," said the Secretary.

Therefore, "we are counting on you to return to the Azores, to visit us and to enjoy the best of what we have to offer."