The President of the Government stated in Brussels that the possibility of the EU supporting reconstruction by 90 percent in the event of natural disasters is "a good step," stressing the importance of taking into consideration the specificities of Outermost Regions.
 
"This is a significant support measures, especially in disaster situations. However, I believe the problem arises from the fact that there is a global approach, rather than a case by case situation, not only with regard to reimbursement rates but also with regard to the eligibility of a certain volume of expenditure. In the case of Outermost Regions, it may be smaller compared to the amount allocated to disasters situations in Mainland Portugal," said Vasco Cordeiro.
 
The President of the Government spoke to journalists on the sidelines of the 4th Forum of the Outermost Regions, stressing that "it is important to be aware of the different size of Outermost Regions compared to other parts of the European Union and the need for policies that necessarily have to take account of this reality."
 
"We are not just talking about resource availability, we are often dealing with eligibility issues, namely the reimbursement of expenses," said Vasco Cordeiro. According to him, "this is a good step," but we must wait for "evolution of the matter."
 
Vasco Cordeiro stressed that the Azores have felt the European solidarity, considering that "there is every reason to be proud of the path followed by the European Union and the way it has acted regarding different regions." Nevertheless, he stressed that it is important to improve.
 
"This is what we are talking about: how can we solve what eventually needs to be corrected - and there are some aspects that need to be corrected - and how we can raise some ongoing policies to another level in order to ensure the accomplishment of EU goals," said the President of the Government.