The Regional Director for Communities said on Monday in Bermuda that the Government of the Azores is "strongly committed to promote a relation of proximity with the Azorean communities in the Diaspora, including the strengthening of relations with the authorities of host countries and territories."

Paulo Teves spoke at Clube Vasco da Gama during a meeting with the Portuguese community residing in that territory. The government official restated "the commitment taken by the Government of the Azores in working towards the strengthening of proximity with Bermuda, not only in the establishment of a close relation with its government, but also in the resolution of situations that fall within the National Government's responsibility."

The Regional Director for Communities pointed out the lack of consular representation of Portugal in Hamilton, an issue that is being "carefully followed and with great concern on the part of regional authorities, which have repeatedly requested to the National Government a rapid resolution of this issue."

In this regard, Paulo Teves conveyed his satisfaction for the recent announcement concerning the provision of administrative support services. The government official also expects that "the appointment of an honorary consul to provide a closer and effective support to Portuguese citizens residing in Bermuda be solved shortly."

On the same day, the Regional Director for Communities also met with the Minister of Internal Affairs of Bermuda, Michael Fahy, to whom he conveyed the concerns of the Azorean community regarding the restrictions on the acquisition of a permanent residence permit for youngsters of Portuguese descent whose parents are holders of residence permits in Bermuda.

Stressing "the historical relation between both archipelagos as well as the strong presence and full integration of the Portuguese community in Bermuda," Paulo Teves expressed his belief that "a solution will be found in compliance with immigration laws, allowing youngsters of Portuguese descent to be able to acquire a residence permit so that they may stay with their families and continue to contribute to the development of their land of birth."

Paulo Teves stressed that Minister Michael Fahy assured him "the best attention from Bermuda's authorities in regard to this matter as well as their appraisal and consideration for the Azorean community." The government official also highlighted "that one of the first measures taken by the Minister overseeing immigration matters was the abolition of the abolition of the duration of labour agreements, which had a maximum duration period of 6 years. This amendment meets the interests of the Azorean Community."

Under the programme of his visit to Bermuda, the Regional Director for Communities met on Tuesday morning with the Director of the Department of Immigration, Danette Ming. At the end of the meeting, Paulo Teves emphasised "the joint commitment of strengthening the institutional relation between both territories."