The President of the Government conveyed his satisfaction for the number of youngsters of Azorean descent attending Portuguese classes at the Harbord Collegiate Institute in Toronto, Canada, noting that their interest in Portuguese language and culture "is very important for the Azores."

"I do not know if they are aware of the importance of what they are doing. It not only enhances their knowledge, but also recovers the heritage of their ancestors," Vasco Cordeiro said, urging students "to be proud of their heritage."

Vasco Cordeiro spoke during a visit to the school, where he watched two videos made by students attending Portuguese classes. The President of the Government also answered the questions posed by students, emphasising that "education is the key to enhance the Azorean society."

The students received from the President of the Government several "À Descoberta dos Açores" (Discovering the Azores) games, which contains several questions about the archipelago. Currently, they are collecting clothes and gifts for needy children from S. Miguel that will be delivered to the "Casa do Gaiato" (social institution) and Nordeste Town Hall. There are several places across the school, including all classrooms, for the delivery of donations.

Opened in 1892, the Harbord Collegiate was one of the first secondary school establishments to teach Portuguese in Canada, starting in the 1970s. In the school year 1993/1994, the teaching of Portuguese became part of the school's curriculum plan.

After visiting the school, Vasco Cordeiro chaired a meeting with Azorean and Luso-Canadian entrepreneurs in Toronto. The initiative was promoted by the Society for the Business Development of the Azores (SDEA) with the purpose of promoting investment opportunities in the Region.

"This meeting is intended to present the Azores of today and the investment opportunities we have for all those who wish to help the Region," said Vasco Cordeiro. In addition to presenting areas the Government of the Azores considers strategic for investment, the meeting also provided important information to potential investors, including the incentive schemes available for those wishing to invest in the Azores.