Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to address your conference today focused on the future of fishing in the Azores, even from a distance.

The beautiful Azores islands, located 1400 kilometers from the nearest mainland, have a unique relationship with the ocean. The sea is integral to local life, providing food security, economic opportunities, and enriching cultural heritage.

Your fishing industry plays a crucial role, with around 600 small-scale vessels catching tuna, swordfish, blue sharks, and the famous blackspot seabream or “voraz”. This sector significantly contributes to the economy and offers various jobs throughout the value chain.

As an islander, I deeply understand the oceans importance and our responsibilities toward it.

I appreciate your interest in evaluating the Common Fisheries Policy Regulation. This evaluation aims to ensure that the Regulation is still effective or requires improvements, focusing on sustainable development in economic, social, and environmental aspects.

We will also explore ways to enhance the delivery of scientific advice, which is essential for setting quotas and assessing stock status to balance ecological health with economic success.

This evaluation will be conducted openly and transparently, supported by evidence and extensive stakeholder consultations.

I would like to express my gratitude to the Regional Secretariat for the Sea and Fisheries for their valuable feedback during the public consultation.

We intend to use the feedback received to strengthen the positive aspects of the CFP regulation and address any weaknesses identified in the evaluation, potentially through legislative action.

I believe all stakeholders should collaborate towards a shared long-term vision for a resilient, competitive, and sustainable fisheries and aquaculture sector by 2040.

As islanders, we hold our oceans dear. Our fishers, as guardians of the ocean, have a profound understanding of its rhythms. We must listen to them and acknowledge their role in adapting to contemporary challenges.

Our commitment is to manage fisheries sustainably, ensuring profitable fishing activities while preserving our cultural heritage and the livelihoods of ocean-dependent communities.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Now is the time to share your ideas and vision for the future of fisheries in the Azores, Portugal, and the EU. We need your strong engagement!

I wish you a productive conference and look forward to your insights.