The Regional Secretary of the Presidency for External relations stated in Ponta Delgada that cultural diversity in the Azores has a "double dimension and increased relevance," taking into consideration the number of foreign citizens from various nationalities that are currently residing in the archipelago. This trend "contrasts with the migratory path of Portuguese emigration for over more than five centuries of history."

Rodrigo Oliveira spoke at the opening session of the seminar "Interculturality in the Azores," an event held under the World Biodiversity Day for Dialogue and Development. The government official highlighted the "existence of immigrants from 75 countries who reside in the Azores. Currently, there are 3,600 immigrants that represent 1.5 percent of the population, a reality that did not exist 20 years ago."

"The Azores of today, made up of this multiplicity of identities, take pride on the immigrants living here as well as on their multiculturalism," said the government official.

For the Regional Secretary, more than promoting the preservation of separate identities, the concept of interculturalism and mutual knowledge is what will allow us to build a better future.

"This is an added value recognised by the Government of the Azores as well as the contributions provided by associations and partners working with immigrants," added the government official.

According to Rodrigo Oliveira, "the promotion of Portuguese language courses for immigrants" is one of the effective integration tools to which the Regional Government has awarded priority status. This measure is important insofar as it provides immigrants with the adoption of useful tools in the acquisition of Portuguese nationality and permanent residence status as well as in their personal and professional integration.

These courses "have reached five islands, covering more than 160 immigrants in several editions." In addition to several actions promoted among youngsters at schools, the fact that we are entering the third year of the implementation of this initiative allows us to promote a "spirit of knowledge, relationship and recognition of traditions, culture and the way of seeing the world from other countries."

Rodrigo Oliveira praised all associations and organisations working in the field of cultural diversity, stressing that "for some reason, the number of immigrants did not decrease in the Azores. On the contrary, the number grew, which means that we know how to welcome migrants."

Therefore, interculturality, "more than the acknowledgement of the value of each culture by itself, is worth for everything that brings a new vision on culture, openness to the world and opportunities."

"This is a common heritage of Humanity for its multiplicity. This is the common heritage of Humanity because it is, effectively, through culture and these different visions that we can move forward," stressed Rodrigo Oliveira.