Strategic partnerships between the Azores and Brazil in the areas of innovation, technology, trade, and tourism were the topics of discussion at a meeting between the Vice President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, and the Vice Governor of the State of Santa Catarina (Brazil), Marilisa Boehm, accompanied by the State Secretary of Tourism, Catiane Seif. The meeting took place earlier this week in Ponta Delgada.

On this occasion, the possibility of establishing an air link between the Region and Florianópolis was discussed, based on the existing connection between the capital of the State of Santa Catarina and Lisbon, with a stopover, as is currently the case with the Lisbon-Terceira-San Francisco connection.

Opportunities for exporting Azorean products to Santa Catarina were discussed, including beef, which this state currently lacks in production.

The Vice-President of the Regional Government also highlighted the prospects for creating high-value-added partnerships for the Azorean innovation sector, with the visit program including a trip to NONAGON – São Miguel Science and Technology Park.

“We are continuing to develop our strategy for external cooperation and attracting investment to the region. The cultural and historical ties that exist with Santa Catarina are a very strong bridge for us to work towards this goal,” said Artur Lima.

In Diário Insular – José Lourenço, director.

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.