The Regional Secretary for Tourism and Transport announced today the creation of "a specific programme for communication technologies" with the purpose of "promoting the Azores as a place where this type of projects and investments are supported and welcomed."

Vítor Fraga spoke at the opening ceremony that marked the symbolic start of the construction of a VLBI station (Very Long Baseline Interferometry) on the island of Santa Maria, which will be integrated in the Atlantic Network of Geodynamic and Space Stations. In this context, the government official stressed the importance of "having the necessary sales force to attract other interests on a global scale."

The VLBI station on Santa Maria is the result of a protocol established between the Regional Government and the National Geographic Institute of Spain and represents an investment of nearly five million Euros; it is expected to be fully operational in April 2014.

This station, which will be equipped with a 13.2 metre antenna, includes a network for the study of astronomy, geodesy and geophysics, being mainly intended to measure distances between tectonic plates and, thereby, conduct further studies on seismicity.

For Vítor Fraga, "this project, like other technologically advanced projects, will put the Azores on the global map of the communication industry. However, according to him, we must continue the effort towards the "promotion of these projects" and the reinforcement of "qualified training in the fields of engineering and technology."

Vítor Fraga said the Regional Government believes that "the Azores have in their own right achieved a prominent position in the development of communication technologies," highlighting the importance of this initiative to the projection of the Region and in particular of Santa Maria Island.
"When this 5 million Euro investment will be concluded, Santa Maria will be taking another major step in this path towards a prominent role in the global development of space technologies," stated the government official.

The Regional Secretary for Tourism and Transport also conveyed his belief that it is possible "to boost the development of scientific projects from several universities" through this station, which should create the conditions in order to make Azorean youngsters "feel it is worth plunging into the world of new technologies.”