The Representative of the European Commission in Portugal, Sofia Moreira de Sousa, made an official visit to the islands of Flores and Corvo on April 16 and 17, with the aim of monitoring various projects funded by EU funds on the ground and strengthening the proximity of European institutions to the outermost regions.
The visit took place at the invitation of MEP André Franqueira Rodrigues and allowed highlighting the concrete impact of European Union investments on the economic, social and environmental development of the Western Group.
During a trip to the island of Flores, the The delegation visited the Port of Lajes das Flores, whose reconstruction was supported by the European Solidarity Fund, in an intervention considered fundamental for the resilience of local infrastructure. There was also an opportunity for a meeting with young students in the initiative “Azores Europe Café”, promoting dialogue about the role of the European Union and opportunities for new generations.
The agenda also included visits to several projects in the municipality of Santa Cruz das Flores, namely the Cultural Center, the future Vales Industrial Park and the Terça Housing Development, highlighting the contribution of European funds in different strategic areas.
According to Sofia Moreira de Sousa, the European Union’s cohesion policy must continue to ensure that the outermost regions are a strategic priority, recognizing the specific challenges of insularity and the potential of these territories. This visit reinforces the importance of institutional cooperation and access to community funds as fundamental instruments to promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life of local populations.