The Regional Director for Fisheries stressed in Ponta Delgada the need "to find new markets to sell Azorean fish," pointing out the markets of America, Northern Europe and Eastern Europe as an alternative to the traditional European market.

In this context, the government official stressed "the development of partnerships so that we may find new markets and new countries to sell our fish." Currently, the majority of Azorean fish exported to the "Spanish, Italian and Greek markets, which are facing an economic and financial crisis."

Luís Costa spoke on the sidelines of the Forum "Knowing the Azores Sea." The event is taking place at the University of the Azores, where several topics are being debated such as protected marine areas and maritime tourism activities in the Region.

Speaking at this meeting, the Regional Director for Fisheries noted that "over 90% of the fish unloaded in markets is caught using traditional fishing techniques that take into consideration the respect for natural values, the preservation of resources" as well as the concerns with sustainable development and the protection of the marine environment.

"The mentality and the sense of responsibility of fishing professionals towards the issues related to the management of marine resources have drastically changed over the last decade," stated Luís Costa. The government official noted "that, nowadays, fishers have supported the creation of some protected maritime areas and fishing reserves in order to ensure the future of coming generations."

The Regional Directorate mentioned the regulations approved in partnership with the sector's representatives that has led to the creation of a protection zone for fishing activities using hooks and lines as well as bottom-set longline techniques within three miles. Under these regulations, the use of this fishing technique will be prohibited within six miles by 2017.

Luís Costa also highlighted "the pioneering spirit that has led to the closing of the Condor Fishing Bank, which has become a case study at an international level."

The Regional Director for Fisheries stressed the "paramount importance" that the Azorean Government attaches to scientific research" insofar as it allows a better understanding on the available fishing stocks." In this context, he assured that the Regional Government will "continue to foster partnerships with researchers for the conduction of further scientific studies" in the Azores Sea.

"The future of the sector in the Azores does not require the increase of fishing activities, but rather the promotion of fish caught in the archipelago in order to boost the first sale value of fish," stressed Luís Costa.