## Microsoft Unveils AI Innovation Factory in Lisbon

Microsoft has officially opened an **AI Innovation Factory** in **Lisbon**, in collaboration with **Accenture**, **Avanade**, and **Unicorn Factory Lisbon**. This state-of-the-art **170-m² center** is designed to **accelerate AI adoption** among Portuguese businesses, providing a range of services such as:

- **Workshops**
- **Strategy sessions**
- **Prototype development**
- **Training**

This initiative aims to empower local companies to harness the potential of **artificial intelligence** and enhance their operational capabilities.

Microsoft has opened an AI Innovation Factory in Lisbon, a collaboration with Accenture, Avanade, and Unicorn Factory Lisbon. This 170-m2 centre aims to accelerate AI adoption in Portuguese businesses, offering workshops, strategy sessions, prototype development, and training. 

Microsoft Launches Cutting-Edge AI Innovation Factory in Lisbon

### Accusations Against Opposition
The **Lisbon Mayor**, Carlos Moedas, has described the criticisms regarding the **PSP operation** in the Martim Moniz area as "unjust". He accuses the opposition of attempting to **"partidarize"** the issue. Moedas emphasizes that **residents feel unsafe** and advocates for **increased policing** in the city.

### Perception of Insecurity
Speaking to journalists at a Community Vida e Paz event, Moedas noted that there is a growing **perception of insecurity** in Lisbon, which he attributes to rising **violence**. He stated that the public is calling for more police presence, a sentiment he fully supports: **"We need more police in Lisbon."**

### Criticism of the Current Government
Moedas dismissed the recent criticisms of the controversial operation, suggesting they are not serious. He pointed out that similar operations took place under previous socialist prime ministers without any backlash. He accused the opposition of being **"populist"** and politicizing the work of law enforcement.

### Decline in Police Numbers
Reflecting on security forces in the capital, Moedas highlighted a significant decrease in police numbers from **8,000 in 2010 to 6,700 today**. He criticized both the previous and current governments for inadequate police reinforcements, claiming the city needs **200 new municipal agents** rather than the mere **25** provided.

### Personal Connection to the Community
Moedas defended his role as mayor, stating he maintains a close connection with the community. He expressed frustration at being unfairly criticized for not distancing himself from the PSP operation. He shared personal anecdotes about his immigrant background, insisting that attempts to label him with left or right ideologies are unfounded.

Autarca Lisboa garantiu que lisboetas se sentem inseguros e rejeitou críticas por não se distanciar da operação no Martim Moniz: "Já fui imigrante, sou casado com uma imigrante, não cola". 

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas Defends Increased Police Presence Amid Opposition Criticism

### Tragic Incident in Belém

A **cyclist lost his life** this morning on Avenida da Índia, in **Belém, Lisbon**, after being struck by a vehicle whose driver fled the scene. According to sources from the **PSP (Public Security Police)**, the victim received assistance but was declared dead at the site of the accident.

> "Currently, efforts are being made to identify the vehicle and its driver, but so far, there has been no success," stated a PSP officer.

The accident occurred in the direction of **Alcântara-Algés**, near the **Cordoaria Nacional**. Details about the vehicle involved are scarce, but it is anticipated that it may have sustained some **front-end damage** due to the impact. Emergency services, including **PSP, INEM**, and the **Lisbon Fire Brigade**, were present at the scene.

![Ambulance at the scene](https://images.impresa.pt/sicnot/2023-11-12-ambulancia-112.jpg-98dd06eb-1/original)  
*Image Source: Canva*

O acidente ocorreu no sentido Alcântara-Algés, junto à Cordoaria Nacional e desconhece-se qualquer dado sobre a viatura.

Tragic Cycling Accident in Lisbon: Cyclist Killed After Hit-and-Run

### Political Tensions Rise in Madeira

The call for elections within the **PSD/Madeira** is currently contingent upon the party's internal bodies. Despite the refusal of **Miguel Albuquerque**, opposition parties are applying pressure for **early regional elections** to occur "as quickly as possible," which may hinder the voting process.

### Censure Motion and Calls for Internal Elections

The recent approval of a **censure motion** against the minority government of the PSD has prompted former Secretary for Environment and Natural Resources, **Manuel António Correia**, to advocate for internal elections, expressing his willingness to challenge **Miguel Albuquerque** for the leadership for the third time.

### Albuquerque's Stance

Miguel Albuquerque has repeatedly rejected the idea of an extraordinary congress or early elections, arguing that such moves would lead to a **"fratricidal war"** benefiting their opponents. He insists that the expectation of the people of Madeira is to have **political stability** through prompt elections.

### Urgency for New Elections

On Thursday, during discussions with the **Republican representative**, Albuquerque reiterated the need for early elections, emphasizing that a prolonged political hiatus is not in the public's interest. The urgency for elections, marking the **third set** within a year and a half, has been echoed by opposition parties such as **PS**, **Chega**, and **JPP**, all calling for elections to be held "as quickly as possible."

### Legislative Implications

The **CDS-PP** party has stated that elections should occur within a "reasonable timeframe" to allow parties to reassess their strategies, while **IL** has also expressed readiness for new elections. In light of the unanimous call for early elections, Ireneu Barreto, the Republican representative for Madeira, acknowledged his lack of success in finding a governmental solution and plans to meet with the President of the Republic, **Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa**, to discuss the situation, potentially proposing **March 9th** as the date for early elections.

### Legal Framework and Party Dynamics

According to Article 19 of the Electoral Law for the **Madeira Legislative Assembly**, the President must set the election date with a minimum of **55 days' notice** after dissolution. Should elections occur in mid-March, the timelines for **PSD/Madeira** internal elections would be tight. The party had recently faced elections after Miguel Albuquerque's resignation due to political instability linked to corruption investigations.

### Implications for Internal Party Elections

The PSD's internal election process allows for a congress to be called by **300 members**, though the decision rests with the **Regional Council**. The statutes require a congress to be announced **30 days in advance**, and the regional political commission is elected through a secret ballot by party members.

### Recent Congress and Leadership Challenges

In the last regional congress, held in April, Albuquerque was re-elected as leader. However, the dynamics within the party, particularly regarding the direct elections held in March, indicate ongoing tensions as Albuquerque faces competition from Correia, reminiscent of their previous contest in 2014. 

![Political Tension](https://ad.dnoticias.pt/rep/2024/FSA/mrec/03.jpg)

A convocação de eleições no PSD/Madeira está dependente dos órgãos do partido, mas além da recusa de Miguel Albuquerque, a pressão da oposição para a realização de regionais antecipadas "o mais rápido possível" poderá mesmo inviabilizar o sufrágio. É um assunto que é abordado na edição impressa do DIÁRIO deste sábado.

Intensifying Pressure for Quick Elections in Madeira: PSD's Internal Struggles Unfold

### Overview
The **ACSS** (Central Administration of the Health System) has refrained from disclosing the exact **debt amounts** owed by non-resident foreigners receiving care through the **SNS** (National Health Service). Instead, they have provided figures for certain countries with which they have agreements. 

### Financial Implications
Experts claim that these potential debts are **insignificant** compared to the annual budget of the SNS, which totals **€15.8 million**. This raises questions about the overall impact of these debts on the health system's finances.

### Key Insights
- The SNS has agreements with various countries regarding health care costs for non-residents.
- The lack of transparency in revealing total debts has sparked concerns among health administrators.
- The **debt amounts** might not significantly affect the overall budget of the SNS, according to specialists.

### Visual Insight
![Health System Budget](https://imagens.publico.pt/imagens.aspx/1965053?tp=UH&db=IMAGENS&type=JPG&w=320&act=resize)
*Image Source: Nuno Ferreira Santos* 
Administrators emphasize that the regulations for foreign access to the SNS were established before the current context, where individuals often face years of waiting for regularization. 

### Authors
This article was written by [Alexandra Campos](https://108.181.11.193/autor/alexandra-campos) and [Joana Gorjão Henriques](https://108.181.11.193/autor/joana-gorjao-henriques).

ACSS apenas adianta valores cobrados a alguns países com quem tem acordos. Potenciais dívidas são valores insignificantes num orçamento anual do SNS de 15,8 milhões de euros, dizem especialistas.

Unveiling the Secrets: How Much Do Non-Resident Foreigners Owe the SNS?

**Daily News Overview**

Stay informed with the **latest headlines** from both national and international newspapers. Our daily updates cover key events and highlight significant stories making waves in the media.

![Clear Sky in Lisbon](https://js.sapo.pt/Projects/bsuv4/assets/icons/ceulimpo_day.svg)

**Current Weather in Lisbon**: 7ºC with clear skies. 

**Stay tuned** for more updates as we bring you the freshest news from around the world every day.

Primeiras páginas de jornais e revistas, nacionais e internacionais com atualização diária

Daily News Update: First Pages of National and International Newspapers

### Political Crisis in Madeira

The ongoing **political crises** in Madeira are turning into an endless saga. With **elections on the horizon**, stability once again lies in the hands of **Chega**. 

A historical **PSD/Madeira** member proclaimed, **"We are all in Chega's hands,"** summarizing the political future of the Autonomous Region after the opposition approved a **motion of censure** against Miguel Albuquerque's government.

### Preparing for New Elections

As the new political crisis unfolds, parties are gearing up for yet another electoral campaign. Many doubt that the results will differ from those of May. Both the **PSD** and **PS** are facing internal dissent, with some members advocating for leadership changes before the elections to resolve the political deadlock. Manuel António Correia, a social democrat, publicly urged the **President of the Republic** to allow time for internal reorganization before calling for elections. While criticisms within the **PS** are less vocal, dissatisfaction with Paulo Cafofo is evident.

### Chega's Dilemma

As the **Chega** party continues to push its agenda against corruption and the **Socialist Party**, they face a crucial decision. After causing the regional government's collapse, Chega must choose whether to support a new government led by Albuquerque—who is facing allegations of corruption—or a leftist coalition government. **"Chega will have to decide whether it stands with the right or the left,"** a regional deputy remarked.

### Elections Before Carnival?

Both Miguel Albuquerque and Paulo Cafofo expressed their desire for elections to occur as soon as possible. The scheduling of discussions with **Ireneu Barreto** just two days post-censure vote has been interpreted as a sign of a swift process. Political leaders believe that Barreto's quick action aligns with **Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa**, who is now positioned to call parties without delay. They are aiming for elections before **Carnival**, on February 16 or 23, which would necessitate a decision from the President before the year's end.

### Campaign Strategies

Albuquerque plans to campaign using the **2025 Regional Budget**, which was rejected by the opposition, arguing that the lack of good news for Madeirans results from opposition actions. He also highlights recent positive economic data, including **GDP growth** and increased employment, as favorable news for the outgoing government. The campaign strategy focuses on **"talking little about the PSD and much about governance results."**

In a repeat of previous elections, **Luís Montenegro** is unlikely to join the campaign. The Prime Minister, who recently accused Chega and PS of collusion in Madeira, is expected to communicate with Albuquerque shortly.

As sucessivas crises políticas na Madeira estão a tornar-se numa novela sem fim à vista. Com uma repetição de resultados à vista, a estabilidade fica de novo nas mãos do Chega.

Political Turmoil in Madeira: Chega's Rising Influence and Upcoming Elections

The **National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC)** has recently approved a **tariff proposal** for the **Lisbon airport group**, announcing an average increase of approximately **2.97%** in regulated fees for Lisbon. This decision was disclosed in a statement on **Friday**.

### Key Exceptions
The increase does not apply to:  
- **CO2 modulation** in landing fees  
- Landing fees in **Ponta Delgada**  
- Fees for passengers with reduced mobility (**PMR**) and their respective modulation  
- **Security fees**  

Additionally, the **passenger service fees** were not provisionally approved.

### Other Airports Affected
The ANAC has also sanctioned tariff proposals for the **Porto** and **Faro** airports, with the same exceptions concerning CO2 modulation and PMR fees.  
At Lisbon Airport, the regulated fees will see an average increase of **2.97%**.  
In the **Azores** (Ponta Delgada, Santa Maria, Horta, and Flores), the regulated fees will rise by an average of **0.09%**, while in **Madeira** (Madeira and Porto Santo), the increase is set at **0.47%**.  
The **Civil Terminal of Beja** will experience an average increase of **1.13%** in regulated fees.

### Reductions at Porto and Faro
For the **Porto** and **Faro** airports, the proposal indicates an average reduction of **0.89%** and **0.37%** in their respective regulated fees.

### Ongoing Considerations
The ANAC's board decided not to provisionally approve the PMR fee modulation due to insufficient conditions for the proposed methodology and calculation of the weighted average cost of capital presented by **ANA**.  
Concerning the proposed **Security fee**, the regulator has withheld a decision as some cost increases presented by ANA require further clarification from the concessionaire.

The ANAC also rejected the proposed CO2 modulation in landing fees, citing that the information provided during the tariff consultation process did not ensure adherence to **transparency principles**.

A exceção aplica-se à modulação de CO2 nas taxas de aterragem. A ANAC deu também luz verde às propostas tarifárias para os aeroportos do Porto e de Faro.

Microsoft Launches Cutting-Edge AI Innovation Factory in Lisbon

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Microsoft Unveils AI Innovation Factory in Lisbon

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Other Latest News

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas Defends Increased Police Presence Amid Opposition Criticism

Tragic Cycling Accident in Lisbon: Cyclist Killed After Hit-and-Run

Intensifying Pressure for Quick Elections in Madeira: PSD's Internal Struggles Unfold

Unveiling the Secrets: How Much Do Non-Resident Foreigners Owe the SNS?

Daily News Update: First Pages of National and International Newspapers

Political Turmoil in Madeira: Chega's Rising Influence and Upcoming Elections

Lisbon Airport Fees Set to Rise by 2.97%: What You Need to Know

Other Latest News

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas Defends Increased Police Presence Amid Opposition Criticism

Tragic Cycling Accident in Lisbon: Cyclist Killed After Hit-and-Run

Intensifying Pressure for Quick Elections in Madeira: PSD's Internal Struggles Unfold

Unveiling the Secrets: How Much Do Non-Resident Foreigners Owe the SNS?

Daily News Update: First Pages of National and International Newspapers

Political Turmoil in Madeira: Chega's Rising Influence and Upcoming Elections

Lisbon Airport Fees Set to Rise by 2.97%: What You Need to Know