Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa recently emphasized the benefits of extending autonomy for the country’s regions, particularly the Azores and Madeira. Speaking at the inauguration of the Portuguese Space Agency’s headquarters in Santa Maria, Azores, he highlighted how this expansion enriches Portugal culturally, economically, and socially.

The Importance Of Autonomy

During his speech, President Rebelo de Sousa stated, “The country has gained and continues to gain from the expansion of autonomy in all its dimensions.” He argued that this approach not only enriches Portugal culturally but also economically and socially. The President’s remarks came during a significant event, marking the establishment of a national entity in the autonomous region of the Azores.

The new headquarters of the Portuguese Space Agency, funded by the regional government with an investment of approximately 1.3 million euros, is seen as a pivotal development for the region. The President noted that this initiative would also enhance Portugal’s scientific and technological capabilities.

President Rebelo de Sousa described the inauguration as a “lesson in Portuguese identity,” asserting that the decision to locate the agency’s headquarters in the Azores reflects a deeper understanding of what it means to be Portuguese. He emphasized that without the autonomy granted to the Azores and Madeira, such advancements would have been more challenging to achieve.

Before the President’s address, José Manuel Bolieiro, the President of the Regional Government of the Azores, expressed his hope that the national government would recognize the significance of the agency’s location in the region. He urged for a more inclusive approach to national measures that consider the unique needs of the Azores and Madeira.