The President of the Azores Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, welcomed the new Consul of the United States of America in the Azores, Rita Rico, who took office in August this year, to the Sant’Ana Palace today.

The leader of the Azorean executive seized the opportunity to highlight the historical significance of the US consulate in Ponta Delgada, the oldest in continuous operation worldwide, with a 230-year history.

“The Azores view the United States of America as friends, partners, and loyal allies, with whom we share a common history and purpose,” said José Manuel Bolieiro, also highlighting the “importance” of the Lajes Base for international security and the geostrategic projection of the Region.

The Azorean leader also pointed out that cooperation between the two countries can be deepened in several areas, particularly in science and technology, and recalled the contribution of Azorean communities in the United States as a cultural and human link that strengthens this connection.

“We want to continue to strengthen relations, deepening cooperation in areas where the Azores are leaders and where we can add shared value,” he added.

Consul Rita Rico took advantage of the meeting to clarify the employment situation at Lajes Air Base, assuring that no US military personnel are paid below the minimum wage in force in the region, and explained that wage increases are defined within the framework of the bilateral agreement between Portugal and the United States, and are always applied retroactively when there are delays.

The diplomat praised the Azores Government’s willingness to engage in dialogue, recognizing the importance of basing discussions about Lajes Air Base on facts and trust between allies.

The President of the Azores Government also took the opportunity to wish Rita Rico success in her new role, expressing his confidence that her international experience will be an asset in strengthening cooperation between the United States and the Azores. José Manuel Bolieiro stressed that “the Government of the Azores will do everything in its power to strengthen the climate of closeness, friendship, and mutual trust.”

Rita Rico took office as U.S. Consul in the Azores in August 2025, after holding several senior positions in the U.S. State Department. She was a Strategic Communications Advisor in London, participated in the Transatlantic Diplomatic Fellowship program with the British Government, and held diplomatic posts in Brazil, Venezuela, Kenya, and Chile. With a PhD from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), a master’s degree from the University of Guadalajara, and a bachelor’s degree from Stanford University, she brings extensive international and academic experience to the position.

A native of Chicago, Rita Rico resides with her family in San Diego, California, where she lives with her husband and two adolescent children.

In Correio dos Açores, Natalino Viveiros-director.

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