The President of the Government expressed his "confidence in the commitment, professionalism and dedication" that has been demonstrated by the Military Army, the Navy and the Air Force in their missions in the Azores. Nevertheless, the government official alerted for the shortage of human resources and means in the Armed Forces.

"There is absolutely no reason to doubt their commitment, dedication and professionalism," said Vasco Cordeiro after receiving in audience the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, General Artur Pina Monteiro.

After the meeting, which was held in Ponta Delgada, the President of the Government mentioned the existence of other issues.

"They concern the availability of means and human resources. We believe that they must be addressed as soon as possible," stressed Vasco Cordeiro. The government official added that in the case of the Air Force, the ideal solution was the one that was implemented until December 2013: two full crews for the two helicopters stationed at Lajes Air Base.

With regard to the Navy, the President of the Government stressed that the acquisition of new equipment for the Azores is already at an implementation stage in order provide the Navy with the necessary conditions to fulfil its mission with new technological means.

"As for the availability of means, the Ministry of National Defence is already aware of some important issues that have arisen in this regard, since there officials within the Ministry who are familiar with the current situation," said Vasco Cordeiro.