Portugal and the United States have reaffirmed this week their strategic partnership, emphasizing continued American military cooperation at Lajes Air Base, on Terceira Island in the Azores, at the 53rd meeting of the Portugal–United States Standing Bilateral Commission, held in Washington on November 3.
Under the framework of the 1995 bilateral Defense Cooperation Agreement, commonly known as the Lajes Agreement, the meeting addressed strengthening economic ties and expanding investment opportunities, while addressing longstanding environmental concerns associated with the Lajes military base.
According to the joint statement released by the U.S. Department of State, “The delegations committed to expanding economic opportunity and people-to-people ties that benefit Azorean communities.” The next meeting of the Standing Bilateral Commission, its 54th session, is expected to take place in Lisbon in 2027.
Artur Lima, Vice President of the Regional Government of the Azores
Portugal’s national delegation included Artur Lima, Vice President of the Regional Government of the Azores, the Ambassador of Portugal in Washington, Francisco Lopes, and representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and defense authorities.
Artur Lima addressed environmental contamination associated with decades of American military operations at Lajes, which remained an important issue during the discussions. The United States acknowledged ongoing environmental remediation efforts by the U.S. Air Force. particularly in the municipality of Praia da Vitória.
Beyond environmental concerns, Artur Lima advocated stronger economic relations between the Azores and the United States, including measures to facilitate Azorean exports to the American market. Discussions also addressed opportunities for scientific and academic cooperation involving the University of the Azores.
The delegations also discussed international security and diplomatic cooperation, reaffirming their commitment to working together through NATO and other multilateral institutions. The next meeting of the Standing Bilateral Commission, its 54th session, is expected to take place in Lisbon in 2027.
Located on Terceira Island, Lajes airfield has served for decades as an important logistical and operational facility connecting North America, Europe and Africa. Its geographical position continues to make the installation strategically valuable for military transportation, communications and logistical support.
The Washington discussions carry particular significance for the Portuguese-American community, especially the large Azorean diaspora concentrated in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, California and other parts of the United States.
Lajes Air Base has represented an important connection between the Azores and the United States, extending beyond military cooperation to include economic activity, employment, family relationships and cultural exchanges.
The participation of Artur Lima in the discussions ensured that the regional government’s concerns were represented directly in Washington, underscoring the Azores’ role in a bilateral relationship that has shaped the archipelago’s strategic, economic and social development for decades.
The two governments confirmed that the first plenary meeting of the Portugal–United States CEO Forum is scheduled for November 10, 2026, in Lisbon. The forum is intended to encourage bilateral investment, facilitate trade, promote job creation, and strengthen economic security between the two countries. The initiative follows discussions between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel during Rubio’s October 8 visit to Lisbon.
PAJ/Staff
