Leaders of both countries met to discuss shared challenges, opportunities
President José Manuel Bolieiro (centre) is seen here alongside Premier David Burt and some of their senior colleagues. Photo supplied
Ocean management was the central theme of a high-level meeting between Bermuda and the Azores.
We reported previously on the recent visit by José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Azores, when he took part in events to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the arrival of the first Portuguese immigrants to Bermuda.
The Government has now released more information about the formal aspects of his visit.
A press release states that President Bolieiro met with Premier David Burt and Deputy Premier and Minister of Home Affairs Walter Roban, to discuss marine management and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
The meeting follows the passage in the Azores of historic legislation to protect 30% of their waters, creating the largest marine protected area network in the North Atlantic. The Azores and Bermuda are united by the Sargasso Sea – which provides a migration route for birds and marine life – and by a rich maritime history and deep cultural ties.
Bermuda and the Azores began developing ocean management initiatives, including a network of marine protected areas, in 2019.
The recent meeting focused on knowledge sharing to improve marine research, monitoring, and surveillance systems of offshore areas through satellite technology – and capacity building through marine training programmes, such as the Azores School of the Sea.
President Bolieiro said: “Strengthening the relationship between Bermuda and the Azores provides a strategic opportunity to learn from each other and improve the way we manage our ocean. As isolated island regions in the North Atlantic, we have the opportunity to create a blueprint for the rest of the world on how to sustainably manage our ocean while building a thriving economy.”
Bermuda’s Blue Prosperity Plan includes 20% full protection of its waters and a framework to sustainably build the island’s blue economy.
Deputy Premier Walter Roban said: “As islands in the Atlantic, we share unique challenges and extraordinary opportunities. The Azores’ success in protecting 30% of their waters inspires and informs our work in Bermuda, just as our Blue Prosperity Plan can inform their future initiatives. By sharing our experiences, we accelerate progress toward our shared commitment to sustainable development.”
Today, about 20% of Bermuda’s population is Portuguese and familial, economic and cultural links to The Azores run deep.
