President of Azores helps to mark key milestone
Premier David Burt hosts José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Azores, at Cabinet. Photo: Instagram @davidburtmp
Events have been held to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the first Portuguese immigrants arriving in Bermuda.
José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Azores, was among the distinguished guests who gathered at the Grotto Bay Resort at the weekend.
Governor Rena Lalgie was in attendance, along with Deputy Premier Walter Roban and Opposition Leader Jarion Richardson.
Mr Roban highlighted the shared heritage and commitment to ocean stewardship between the Azores and Bermuda, and the enduring contributions of the Portuguese community to our cultural, social, and economic landscape.
In a speech, Mr Roban said both regions are leaders in marine protection, mainly through the Sargasso Sea Commission and shared goals in marine ecosystem management.
He noted that The Azores have protected 30% of their waters, while Bermuda’s Blue Prosperity Plan aims to protect 20% through community-driven initiatives.
Mr Roban described the 175th anniversary of the first Portuguese arrivals as “a milestone that highlights the profound ties we share”.
He concluded with some personal reflections: “From Red Bean Soup, codfish and potatoes, codfish cakes, to Portuguese donuts (malasadas) and the shared value of family, Bermuda’s identity has been profoundly influenced by those who have arrived since the ‘Golden Rule’ first came to our shores 175 years ago.
“The Bermudian identity has been shaped and enriched by all who have joined this community over the years. I personally can speak to this and am extremely proud of this connection and relationship we have to the Azores. We are one people of the Atlantic just as we have all become one people of Bermuda. This is a strong bond and long may this continue. Happy 175th Anniversary.”
President Bolieiro has also met with Premier David Burt and Cabinet members, where topics of discussion ranged from air connections and driving licences to ocean protection.
Yesterday, the City of Hamilton hosted President Bolieiro and he met with CEO Dwayne Caines, who extended greetings on behalf of Mayor Charles Gosling and City Councillors.
A press release issued by the city stated: “President Bolieiro expressed deep pride in witnessing firsthand the influence and accomplishments of the Portuguese-Bermudian community, which has played an integral role in shaping Bermuda’s history and development. His words conveyed both appreciation and admiration for the thriving legacy his people have established in Bermuda.
“The visit served as a symbolic moment of unity and mutual respect, as Bermuda and the Azores celebrated shared heritage and enduring friendships.”
