The "Açores Entre Mares" (Azores Between Seas) campaign, an initiative promoted by the Regional Government, through the Regional Secretariat for Natural Resources, will be held throughout the archipelago between May 20, European Maritime Day, and June 8, World Ocean Day.

The programme includes activities promoted by civil society organisations, local authorities, non-governmental environmental organisations (NGOs), schools, natural parks, companies, administrative bodies, among others.

The Portuguese Navy is the leading partner of this initiative. In this context, the "Açores Entre Mares" campaign is also integrated in the celebration programme of the Navy Day taking place until May 26.

This year's campaign will be held under the theme "How to Use the Sea" with the aim of disseminating the possible ways that promote the economic use of the Azores Sea in a sustainable perspective. A total of 86 initiatives are already scheduled throughout the archipelago.

The activities planned under this campaign include boat rides, exhibitions, pedestrian trails, recreational fishing competitions and sailing regattas.

The official start of the "Açores Entre Mares 2013" campaign will start on Monday at 9:30 with a boat tour around the island of Corvo, an initiative organised in partnership with Corvo Town Hall and the local delegation of the Marine Police.

The Regional Secretariat for Natural Resources urges the community in general to develop actions and participate in the activities that are included in the programme. Those who are interested should contact the Island Natural Park.

The programme is updated on regular basis and can be found on the Government Portal (www.azores.gov.pt /entremares). Further information may be requested via email [email protected] or telephone 292 207 317.

This campaign is also included in the Regional Plan for Environmental Education and Awareness Raising (PRESAA).