The President of the Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, today presided, at BTL – Better Tourism Lisbon Travel Market, over the signing of a cooperation protocol with AHRESP Serviços to create the Plataforma Nacional das Cozinhas do Mar (National Platform of Sea Cuisines), an initiative that places the sea at the heart of the gastronomic and tourism enhancement strategy, with a direct impact on the Region.

The agreement was signed by the President of the Government of the Azores and by Carlos Moura, President of the Associação da Hotelaria, Restauração e Similares de Portugal (AHRESP), accompanied by Vice‑President Vítor Sobral.

The Azorean leader underlined that this protocol represents “a clear commitment to valuing the sea as an economic, cultural and identity asset” of the Azores.

“The sea is our greatest distinctive mark. Turning it into added value, with sustainability and innovation, is to secure a future for our communities,” he stated.

José Manuel Bolieiro also stressed that the creation of the Plataforma Nacional das Cozinhas do Mar is aligned with the balanced development vision that the Azorean Executive advocates for the Region.

“The Azores as a destination must work for everyone—for those who visit us, but above all for those who live and work here. This protocol connects fishers, producers, chefs, and entrepreneurs into a fairer, more skilled value chain,” he noted.

The platform aims to value, qualify, and promote seafood products, while preserving culinary traditions and encouraging sustainable practices. Planned initiatives include an opening conference, the creation of a route of restaurants dedicated to local seafood products, gastronomic experiences such as workshops and themed dinners, and the replication in the Azores of the “Restaurante ao Vivo” (live restaurant) concept.

The official also highlighted the project’s environmental dimension: “Promoting the consumption of alternative species and raising awareness of sustainable practices protects our marine ecosystem and ensures that future generations can continue to depend on it.”

As coordinating entity, AHRESP Serviços will be responsible for implementing the platform. The Governo dos Açores, as a founding full member, will support the project through educational campaigns on sustainable consumption, by appointing a dedicated manager, and by providing a physical space in the Region for the initiative’s operations.

The protocol will be in force for two years and includes monitoring and periodic evaluation mechanisms.

With this partnership, the Azores strengthen their positioning as a destination where authenticity, sustainability, and quality go hand in hand, affirming the sea as a central element of a shared development strategy.