The Vice-President of the Government stated in Angra do Heroísmo that the International Folklore Festival "is undoubtedly one of the most relevant events taking place in the Region."
 
"Taking into consideration its growing importance year after year, it is a cultural reference not only in our Region, but also in our country", said Sérgio Ávila. The Vice-President spoke at the welcoming ceremony of the participants in the 32nd International Folklore Festival of the Azores, which he presided over on behalf of the President of the Government.
 
In his speech, Sérgio Ávila praised the organisation of the event. This year's edition brings together over four hundred people "from the most diverse parts of the world," who "will spread culture on Terceira Island and in the Azores" for a week.
 
"This week, we can say the world is also here in the Azores," the Vice-President said, expressing his wishes that the experience of participants in this festival "may instil on them the desire to return and that they may take a piece of the Azores to their countries."