The Regional Director for Youth stressed in Ponta Delgada "the importance of the wide
participation and interest of Azorean youth in European projects."

Pilar Damião spoke during the reception of the young people participating in the bilateral exchange 'Live Nature with Sustainability,' which runs until July 28 on São Miguel Island under the European programme 'Erasmus+/Youth in Action.' It involves the participation of 10 young people and two leaders from Brilon, Germany, as well as 10 young people and two leaders of the Azores.

"The organisation of bilateral projects in the Azores under European programme 'Erasmus + / Youth in Action' has been instrumental in the creation of networks of contact and sharing of experiences among young Azoreans and other European countries," stressed the Regional Director.

Pilar Damião noted that these exchanges are another example of that "European youth can work together and contribute to a more enriching, stimulating, innovative and constructive dialogue between the different regions of Europe."

"I believe that the contribution of young people, through their critical spirit, is increasingly important in a Europe where the sense of humanism is dying out," said the government official.

This bilateral exchange, developed by the 'People without Tobacco' Youth Association, aims to endow young people with skills that make them better prepared to actively participate in society and face increasingly demanding challenges.

Moreover, the initiative intends to provide young people with more opportunities to know young people from other countries as well as to share experiences and good practices with other organisations.

"By broadening their cultural, social and also political horizons, young Azoreans become better prepared citizens to engage in the new models of contemporary society, marked by the effects of globalisation, and instigate a greater civic and political participation in the public sphere, "said Pilar Damião.

The 'Live with Nature Sustainability' exchange was also organised with the purpose of addressing the issue on the sustainable and rational use of nature resources, its protection and preservation, as well as the adoption of behaviours and healthy lifestyles through the promotion of sports and outdoor activities.