The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Environment, and Culture, Eduardo Jesus, argued that EEA Grants funding should lead to concrete projects and effective improvements for the population of Madeira.
During the opening session of the EEA Grants to combat domestic violence, Jesus highlighted the importance of international cooperation, viewing the initiative as an opportunity to connect the Region with new networks for cooperation, investment, and development. "The challenge presented to us is, above all, to transform opportunities into initiatives, initiatives into projects, and projects into results," he stated.
Jesus emphasized the Region's shared vision for more sustainable and competitive development focused on improving quality of life. He also stressed the importance of lasting partnerships with donor countries (Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein), advocating for cooperation to extend beyond funding cycles, fostering the exchange of experiences and knowledge.
The Regional Secretary discussed the intervention areas of the EEA Grants, including natural heritage protection, biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation, sustainable use of marine resources, and cultural valorization. Social inclusion was highlighted as an essential component, integrating environmental sustainability, cultural appreciation, and social cohesion, as "The day the focus is not on people, we are doing absolutely nothing here," he concluded.
