During the first day of his official two-day visit to **Portugal**, French President **Emmanuel Macron** met with President **Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa**, **Luís Montenegro**, and other government officials. This agenda was primarily institutional, paving the way for a business-focused day ahead.

### Key Investments
Among the various investments on Macron's list, **military drones** and **vehicles** are highlighted. Notably, France is preparing to acquire **unmanned aerial systems** from **Tekever** and is set to sign an agreement with **Toyota Caetano** for military vehicles. Additionally, **Portugal** will formalize the acquisition of **36 Caesar armored vehicles**.

These developments signify a strengthening of military cooperation between **France** and **Portugal**, aligning both nations' defense strategies.

![Military Drones](https://example.com/military-drones-image)  
![Military Vehicles](https://example.com/military-vehicles-image)

França prepara-se para adquirir sistemas aéreos não tripulados à Tekever, mas também está previsto um acordo com a Toyota Caetano para veículos militares. Portugal formalizará a aquisição de 36 blindados Caesar. 

Macron's Visit to Portugal: Military Drones and Vehicles at the Forefront of Investments

### Surge in Local Wine Sales
In 2024, **85% of certified Algarve wine** was sold within Portugal, primarily in the region itself. Notably, sales in the **hospitality sector** rose by **48% in volume** and **67% in value**, with the average price reaching **€21.78 per liter**. This remarkable achievement is attributed to the **increasing influence of tourism**, which encourages locals and visitors alike to consume Algarve's wines.

### Local Market Dominance
According to **Nielson data**, about **70% of Algarve wines** are sold locally, whether through the **Horeca channel** or **wine tourism**. Exports fluctuate between **12% and 15%**, with the remainder consisting of national sales, particularly in the **Faro district**. The wines are also gaining traction in **Porto and Lisbon**, where they are featured in upscale restaurants and wine shops.

### Positive Growth Trends
Despite a slight decline in total wine sales (down **2%** to **1.2 million liters**), the wine sector saw a **21% increase in volume** and **47% in value** compared to the previous year. The average price per liter was **€17.51**, reflecting a **21% positive variation**.

### Export Growth
While most certified wine remains local, **exports are gradually increasing**. In recent years, exports represented **10%** of total sales, largely due to tourists tasting local wines during their visits. The **export market** is primarily focused on European countries like the **UK**, **Netherlands**, **Switzerland**, and also includes North American markets like the **USA**, **Canada**, and **Brazil**.

### Economic Landscape and Production
Currently, the Algarve has **60 economic operators**, up from **30 in 2016/2017**, mostly consisting of small producers with vineyards of **four to five hectares**. The **Indication of Geographic Origin (IG)** for Algarve wines accounts for **90%** of total sales, while the four **Denominations of Origin (DO)**—Lagos, Portimão, Lagoa, and Tavira—make up around **10%**. The region boasts **1400 hectares of vineyards**, with **800** dedicated to certified production.

### Promotion Initiatives
To boost international recognition, the **CVA (Comissão Vitivinícola do Algarve)** is involved in a **SIAC project** aimed at internationalization. They plan to invite distributors from the **UK**, **Netherlands**, and **Switzerland** to the region this year. The **FINE – Wine Tourism Expo** in Spain and the **Enóphilo Wine Fest** in Vilamoura will feature Algarve wines, enhancing visibility and market reach.

### Upcoming Events
The CVA will also organize various promotional events, including the **"Entre Pratos e Vinhos"** from October 15 to November 30, and the **17th Algarve Wine Contest**. These initiatives aim to strengthen the connection between local gastronomy and wine, making the region a notable player in the wine tourism sector.

Em 2024, 85% do vinho certificado do Algarve foi vendido em Portugal, quase tudo na região, onde as vendas na restauração subiram 48% em volume e 67% em valor e o preço médio foi de 21,78 euros/litro.

Algarve's Wine Sales Surge: 85% Sold Locally as Tourism Fuels Growth

### Launch of 'Savor the Algarve'
The **PRR REVITALGARVE** project unveiled the brand **'Savor the Algarve'** on February 26, at the facilities of the **Algarve Regional Coordination and Development Commission**. Approximately **150 attendees** were present, primarily consisting of **primary producers** and **agri-food sector transformers**, along with various local development entities and associations.

### Objectives of the Brand
The **'Savor the Algarve'** brand aims to represent the **Local Producers Network of Algarve (RPLA)** and establish a quality seal for the region's agriculture. Producers and transformers can now join and utilize this brand by applying for membership in the RPLA and adhering to its **regulatory criteria**.

### Strengthening Regional Agriculture
The brand not only serves as a factor of differentiation for locally produced goods but also seeks to unify and promote the region's agriculture, enhancing the competitiveness of this sector both nationally and internationally.

### Future Developments
The brand's development will align with the growth of the RPLA, with plans for a website to connect producers with consumers, emphasizing **short consumption circuits**.

### Event Highlights
The launch featured a demonstration of regional products and culinary tastings, with thanks to various associations such as the **National Association of Goat Breeders of Algarvian Race (ANCCRAL)**, **Algarve Livestock Breeders Association (ASCAL)**, and others involved in local agriculture.

![Savor the Algarve Event](https://www.agroportal.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/evento-saborear-algarve-8.jpg)

_Source: CCDR Algarve_

O projeto PRR REVITALGARVE realizou ontem, 26 de fevereiro, nas instalações da Comissão de Coordenação e Desenvolvimento Regional do Algarve, I.P. | Agricultura e Pescas, a apresentação da marca “saborear o ALGARVE”. Marcaram presença, no evento, cerca de 150 pessoas, sobretudo produtores primários e transformadores do setor agroalimentar, mas também diversas entidades e associações de […]

Discover the New Brand 'Savor the Algarve' Aiming to Boost Local Agriculture

### Traffic Disruption on A1

**Traffic is currently cut off on the A1 highway in the direction from South to North** due to an accident involving a heavy vehicle that collided with several cars and another heavy vehicle.

**Five injured individuals** have been reported, one of whom is in serious condition. They have been transported to hospitals in Santa Maria, São José (both in Lisbon), and Vila Franca de Xira.

According to a source from the **Sub-Regional Command of Greater Lisbon of the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC)**, the accident occurred at kilometer 20, following the **loss of control by a heavy goods vehicle**, which resulted in the **collision of five light passenger vehicles and two heavy goods vehicles**.

The alert for the incident was issued at **12:50 PM**, as shared on the **Civil Protection page**. A total of **34 operatives and 15 vehicles** have been mobilized to the scene, including firefighters from Alverca, Vialonga, and Vila Franca de Xira, as well as INEM, GNR, and the concessionaire Brisa.

Due to this accident and the resulting traffic cut-off, there are already **kilometers of traffic jams** on the A1 in the South-North direction. 

Additionally, it should be noted that in the opposite direction, where the truck that lost control was traveling, the left lane is also affected. In a statement, Brisa confirmed that **the A1 is closed in the South-North direction near Alverca due to an incident** and stated that **traffic is being redirected to the A9 and A10**.

![Accident on A1](https://images.impresa.pt/sicnot/2025-02-28-acidente-camiao-a1-b98558a1/16x9/mw-1200)

O despiste de um veículo pesado terá estado na origem do acidente na A1, na zona de Alverca, que envolve mais um pesado e cinco viaturas ligeiras. O trânsito está cortado no sentido Sul-Norte.

Major Traffic Disruption on A1 Due to Heavy Vehicle Accident in Alverca

The **University of Algarve** opened its doors once again on **February 25 and 26**, welcoming around **2500 visitors**. The initiative aimed to introduce students from basic and secondary education to the university environment, helping them clarify their doubts about future academic paths.

### Engaging Program
The **Open Days** featured a diverse program that included various **informative, educational, experimental, and recreational activities**. All initiatives were designed to challenge and engage young minds, stimulating their **critical thinking** and helping them assimilate new concepts or reinforce previously learned material from their classes.

### Participation from Across the Nation
Students from schools across all municipalities in the Algarve, as well as from **Alto and Baixo Alentejo**, **Lisbon**, and other regions of the country participated in this event. The university spaces, typically dedicated to classes and research, were filled with activities prepared for the visiting students over the two days.

### Student and Faculty Involvement
Numerous faculty members and students from UAlg participated in this initiative, assisting visitors in making informed decisions about their futures. The involvement of UAlg students was crucial in ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for potential future students.

### Extensive Activities Offered
With over **100 activities** spread across the two campuses (Penha and Gambelas), visitors enjoyed guided tours of the university's **organic units**, departments, and laboratories. They had the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, clarify doubts, conduct scientific experiments, and interact with faculty, researchers, students, and staff. Additionally, the program included lectures, workshops, exhibitions, and sports activities, targeting both teachers and students from **9th to 12th grade**, and aimed to involve other educational stakeholders and parents as well.

A Universidade do Algarve voltou a “abrir as suas portas”, nos dias 25 e 26 de Fevereiro, a cerca de 2500 visitantes, com o objetivo de se dar a conhecer aos alunos dos ensinos básico e secundário, ajudando-os a esclarecer todas as suas…

University of Algarve Welcomes 2500 Students During Open Days

### Nationwide School Closures Due to Strike

A **strike by operational assistants** has led to the closure of **many schools** across Portugal. It is estimated that between **40% to 60%** of educational institutions in the **Northern region** are affected.

![School Closures](https://asset.skoiy.com/jnrcnjwljorqgsbu/3o1ikv2tde0h.jpg?w=1852&q=80)
*Operational assistants' strike has resulted in widespread school closures.*

The strike, which has been ongoing, highlights the challenges faced in the education sector and the impact on students and families nationwide. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation as it evolves.

A greve dos assistentes operacionais levou ao encerramento de “muitas” escolas em todo o país, prevendo-se que entre “40% a 60%” dos estabelecimentos de ensino estejam encerrados na região Norte.

Nationwide School Closures: Operational Assistants Strike Hits Portugal

![Algarve 2030 Meeting](https://www.avozdoalgarve.pt/media/images/884X544/img12146604916-Reunio-do-Comit-Acomp-Prog-Reg-Algarve-2030---25-02-2025-115-002.jpg)

**6th Meeting of the Algarve 2030 Monitoring Committee**
The Algarve 2030 Regional Program Monitoring Committee convened on February 25 at the Old Fish Market in Portimão. The agenda focused on critical points for the program, including compliance with the **N+2 rule for the 2025 execution**, an interim review, and a proposal for the **second reprogramming** of the program, which will be submitted by the end of March.

José Apolinário, President of the Algarve 2030 Directing Commission, emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring by the **European Commission**, stating that this meeting occurs at a time when efforts are concentrated on accelerating the execution of **PT2030**.

With the aim of optimizing the use of allocated funds, the significant goal is set for **November 2025**, requiring the execution of **€100 million** from the Algarve 2030 Program. Apolinário noted, "This is the execution target for 2025 - one year before the PRR deadline - and it is the mission of all who advocate for the importance of cohesion policy and the entities around this table."

A planning framework has been established based on beneficiary types and objectives, around which the Algarve 2030 Management Authority seeks commitment from all entities involved.

According to the governance model for the 2021-2027 period, the committee is responsible for analyzing all issues affecting the program's progress towards achieving its objectives, making recommendations to improve its effectiveness and efficiency.

In addition to members of the Algarve 2030 Monitoring Committee, which includes around sixty representatives from various national and regional entities, municipalities, and parishes, the meeting also featured participants from the **DG Regio** and **DG Employment** of the European Commission and the national Agency for Development and Cohesion, responsible for the technical coordination of the implementation of **European Funds**.

The Old Fish Market in Portimão, where the session took place, was a project supported under the previous community framework. Built in 1916, it operated as a fish market from the 1950s until the 1980s. The rehabilitation, financed at **€510,261.23** (60% from FEDER), has transformed this building, which was in a state of advanced degradation, into a multi-purpose space directed towards culture, coworking, and the affirmation of the territory of Portimão and the region.

*CCDR Algarve*

PRESIDENTE DA CCDR ALGARVE CONTA COM A COLABORAÇÂO E O EMPENHO DOS MUNICÍPIOS, ENTIDADES PÚBLICAS, UNIVERSIDADE E EMPRESAS 

Algarve 2030: Urgent Need to Execute €100 Million by 2025

### Overview of Domestic Violence Cases in 2024

The **Public Security Police (PSP)** has reported a significant increase in domestic violence cases in **2024**, with **1,281 arrests** made and **15,781 complaints** registered. This marks a **32% increase** in arrests compared to **2023**.

### Arrest and Complaint Statistics

Out of the arrests, **625 were made in the act**, while **656 occurred outside of it**. In comparison to **2023**, when the PSP recorded **15,499 complaints** and made **971 arrests**, this year's statistics show a rise of **310 arrests** (32%) and an increase of **282 complaints** (1.8%).

### Criminal Inquiries and Suspects

In **2024**, the PSP opened **19,219 criminal inquiries** related to domestic violence, which constitutes over **19%** of all inquiries delegated to them by the **Public Prosecutor's Office (MP)**. There were also **6,837 suspects** identified in domestic violence cases, with **94 preventive detention measures** applied by the judicial authority.

### Awareness and Prevention Initiatives

The PSP's **Proximity and Victim Support Teams (EPAV)** executed **277 awareness actions** involving **6,804 participants** and made **25,647 individual contacts** for crime prevention regarding domestic violence. Additionally, the **Safe School Program Teams (EPES)** conducted **1,795 awareness activities** on domestic violence and dating violence, engaging **39,295 students** during the **2023/24 academic year**.

### Support Structures for Victims

The PSP has established **Police Support Structures for Domestic Violence Victims (EAPVVD)** to better assist vulnerable individuals, with **19 EAPVVDs** currently operational in various metropolitan commands. Alongside these structures, **199 police officers** are dedicated to investigating domestic violence offenses.

### Encouragement for Reporting

The PSP emphasizes the importance of victims and witnesses reporting domestic violence incidents. They assure that all reported situations undergo immediate risk assessment to implement urgent security and protection measures. Complaints can be filed via email at **violenciadomestica@psp.pt** or in person at PSP stations.

### Understanding Domestic Violence

Domestic violence encompasses **violent behaviors**, including physical, verbal, or psychological abuse, and is taken seriously by law enforcement agencies in Portugal.

A PSP deteve 1.281 pessoas pelo crime de violência doméstica e registou 15.781 queixas em 2024, tendo as detenções aumentado 32% no ano passado em relação a 2023, revelou hoje aquela polícia.

Macron's Visit to Portugal: Military Drones and Vehicles at the Forefront of Investments

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