Brussels, 26 August 2024
Today, Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms Elisa Ferreira begins a four-day visit to the Azores, to meet with regional and local government representatives and visit several projects supported by Cohesion Policy funds. Discussions will include the implementation and benefits of the 2022 Outermost Regions Strategy to the region.
Commissioner Ferreira will meet with the government of the Azores today and its President on the island of Terceira. They will discuss how Cohesion Policy funds can help support the region deliver on its long-term goals, including in the areas of biodiversity, agriculture, and transport connectivity.
Tomorrow, the Commissioner will deliver a keynote speech at the 63rd European Regional Science Association Conference opening ceremony, with this year’s Conference focusing on peace and sustainable development.
On Wednesday, Commissioner Ferreira will travel to the island of Flores where she will visit the port of Lajes, which was heavily impacted by hurricane Lorenzo in 2019. Cohesion Policy support worth €168 million will be used to reconstruct the port to better withstand the impact of climate change. The Commissioner will meet with the local authorities, population, and stakeholders.
Commissioner Ferreira will also visit the mini dam at Fazenda de Santa Cruz, where a discussion on renewable energies will take place, and the volunteer firefighters’ headquarters, a recipient of Cohesion Policy support.
The visit will conclude on Thursday in the island of Corvo with a tour of several projects supported by Cohesion Policy funds such as the Corvo Ecomuseum and the Santa Casa kindergarten and pre-school education centre.