With regard to the news on the negotiations between the University of the Azores and Region to secure its funding, the Regional Secretariat for Education, Science and Culture clarifies the following:

1. The funding of the University of the Azores falls within the responsibilities of the National Government as in accordance with the State's powers in these matters;

2. The aid granted by the Regional Governments, as it has been stipulated by protocols in due time, is intended to support the University's tripartite structure and the university projects considered of especial importance to the Autonomous Region of the Azores for their scientific, economic and social impact;

3. Hence, the Government of the Azores has supported and will continue to support the University of the Azores in the context of its tripartite structure and scientific projects.