**Water that Unites**: The Portuguese government has unveiled an ambitious national strategy aimed at enhancing water management efficiency, introducing nearly **300 measures** designed to optimize this vital resource. This initiative comes just before a critical **confidence vote**, where the government plans to invest approximately **€5 billion** by **2030**. The strategy emphasizes sustainable practices and innovative solutions to address the pressing challenges associated with water scarcity and management in the country.

Nas vésperas da votação de uma moção de confiança com chumbo anunciado, o Governo avançou com a apresentação da estratégia nacional para a água. Há quase 300 medidas para uma gestão mais eficiente deste recurso.

Portugal's Bold €5 Billion Investment Plan to Revolutionize Water Management

## Minister Calls for Abstention from Confidence Motion

The Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed in an exclusive interview with CNN Portugal that "everyone would be satisfied" if the **Socialist Party (PS)** abstains from the confidence motion presented by the Government, which will be voted on next Tuesday. He stated that the PS **"is the only party"** capable of preventing a political crisis.

**"The PS has a simple remedy.** Abstain from the confidence motion and then carry out the necessary actions. Everyone will be satisfied: the Government, the Socialist Party, and the Portuguese people. I am convinced they also do not want elections," he argued.

Rangel believes that a possible abstention from the PS is still achievable. **"We are not asking the PS to trust the Government, but to abstain. This is a scenario that is still possible."**

Regarding the parliamentary inquiry committee proposed by the socialists, the minister offered advice to **Pedro Nuno Santos**: **"If the PS wants a parliamentary inquiry committee, they have all the conditions to have it: abstain. This does not mean trusting the Government. They can create the bodies, instruments, and identities they believe necessary to obtain the clarifications they claim are missing."** Rangel emphasized that asking the Socialist Party for stability is not too much.

The former MEP and vice-president of the social-democrats asserted that the PS **"is the only party capable"** of avoiding a political crisis. **"Who holds the stability of the country now? On Tuesday, who will decide if we go to elections or not? It is not the PSD, it is not the CDS, it is not the Government. It is the Socialist Party, which with its vote can prevent elections. Therefore, it is the only one in a position to do so."**

In the midst of encouraging messages to the opposition, there were criticisms directed at the **"diarchy"** leading the PS. **"The attacks from the duo leading the PS, Pedro Nuno Santos and Alexandra Leitão, are only comparable to those from Chega,"** he noted.

**"Pedro Nuno Santos cannot make such serious statements about the Government and the Prime Minister without facing consequences,"** he added.

As the Government faces accusations from various parties of wanting early elections, the minister distanced himself from these claims. **"If the Government wanted to provoke elections, it had a very simple solution. It could have resigned, and there would be no more clarifications. We would go straight to elections. By proposing a confidence motion, the Government is indicating that it needs conditions to govern. This is something all Portuguese understand,"** he asserted.

Regarding the controversies surrounding **Luís Montenegro**, Rangel believes everything has been clarified. **"The Prime Minister has clearly explained everything that needed clarification, and he will respond to more questions when he deems it appropriate."**

O ministro dos Negócios Estrangeiros apela a que o Partido Socialista se abstenha da moção de confiança

Paulo Rangel's Bold Claim: PS Holds the Key to Political Stability in Portugal

### ModaLisboa: A Fashion Extravaganza

The latest edition of **ModaLisboa** is drawing to a close, held at the iconic **Pátio da Galé** in **Terreiro do Paço**. This year’s showcase of **spring/summer 2025** collections featured renowned designers like **Alves/Gonçalves**, **Constança Entrudo**, **Carlos Gil**, **Luís Carvalho**, **Valentim Quaresma**, **Gonçalo Peixoto**, and **Dino Alves**. The event, which kicked off on **March 6**, was an intense four-day celebration of fashion.

On the final day, **Sunday, March 9**, collections from **Valentim Quaresma**, **Gonçalo Peixoto**, and **Dino Alves** took center stage. The atmosphere was electric, with fashion enthusiasts showcasing their best outfits beyond the runway.  

**Elegance and Boldness Unite**  
The 64th edition of **Lisbon Fashion Week**, themed **"Capital"**, aimed to provoke thoughts on the value of all forms of capital. Fashionistas strayed from extravagance, opting for stylish coats with intricate patterns and tasteful accessories, while infusing a hint of sensuality into their looks. Monochromatic outfits in **black** and **white** were prevalent, often complemented by unique bags. Fabrics like **lace** and **tulle** elevated many looks, with denim also making an appearance.

Color was not overlooked, as vibrant shoes added a pop against the backdrop of the **Pátio da Galé**. **Dresses** emerged as a favored choice, alongside prominent **blazers**, showcasing a variety of trends from headscarves to structured pieces. No one was left behind in this fashion-forward gathering.

### Check Out the Best Looks!

Percorra a galeria e descubra quais foram.

Discover the Top 15 Stunning Looks from ModaLisboa's Final Day

## New Mobility Subsidy Model Approved
The **Ministry of Infrastructure and Housing** announced today the approval of a new model for the **Social Mobility Subsidy** during the Council of Ministers meeting. This subsidy aims to support **regular travel between the mainland and the islands** of the Azores and Madeira.

## Objectives of the New Model
According to the announcement, this decree-law establishes a **uniform legal regime** aimed at **simplification, efficiency,** and **equal treatment** among the Autonomous Regions. The new model will provide the **Social Mobility Subsidy** to residents, equivalent residents, and students using regular air services between the mainland and the Autonomous Regions, as well as inter-island maritime services.

## Financial Details
- The **maximum eligible cost** remains **€400 for Madeira** and **€600 for the Azores**.
- Residents of the Azores will pay a maximum fare of **€119** (down from €134) for trips to the mainland, while students will pay **€89** (down from €99).
- Madeira residents will pay **€79** (down from €86), and students will pay **€59** (down from €65).
- For inter-regional travel, both residents and students from the two archipelagos will pay **€79** and **€59**, respectively.

## Improvements and Goals
The previous model, in place since 2015, provided a **variable subsidy** per trip, reimbursed after verifying passenger eligibility. The new model aims to promote **economic development** and **territorial cohesion**, while also addressing historical and geographical challenges. Key improvements include:
- Harmonization of subsidy regimes across regions.
- Maintenance of current maximum passenger costs.
- Creation of an **electronic platform** to manage subsidy allocation.
- Ensuring beneficiaries only pay the **net amounts** after the subsidy is deducted during ticket purchase.

## Enhancing Social Cohesion
The **Social Mobility Subsidy** is recognized as a crucial element for **social cohesion**, bridging gaps across the national territory. Minister **Miguel Pinto Luz** emphasized its role in overcoming historical contingencies and geographical constraints.

## Inclusion of Immigrants
The new decree also addresses concerns regarding the eligibility of **non-Portuguese nationals**, expanding subsidy access to immigrants residing in the Azores for at least six months. This change is expected to benefit over **3,000 individuals** who previously lacked access to the subsidy.

## Recent Controversy
In September 2024, the government's decision to impose a **€600 cap** on reimbursements for air travel to the mainland sparked controversy, as residents were previously reimbursed for amounts exceeding **€134**, regardless of ticket price.

O Ministério das Infraestruturas e Habitação anunciou hoje a aprovação, em Conselho de Ministros, do novo modelo para atribuição do Subsídio Social de Mobilidade para as viagens regulares entre o continente e as ilhas e entre estas.

Portugal's Government Unveils New Mobility Subsidy Model for Azores and Madeira

The **Government of Luís Montenegro** is set to appoint **Pedro do Ó Ramos**, former Secretary of State for the Sea, as the new head of the **Sines and Algarve Ports Administration**. This decision comes as a surprise and has sparked discomfort among certain factions within the **Socialist Party** due to concerns over **Ramos' experience** and the timing of the announcement, occurring just before a crucial **confidence vote** that could threaten the government's stability.

### Background of Pedro do Ó Ramos
Pedro do Ó Ramos has previously served in government under **Pedro Passos Coelho** and has been an elected member of parliament for the **Social Democratic Party (PSD)** across multiple legislative terms. His background includes involvement in the **Agriculture and Fisheries** committees.

### Controversy Surrounding the Appointment
The choice of Ramos has raised eyebrows, particularly since it was confirmed by a Ministry of Infrastructure source just a day before the **confidence motion** vote. Critics within the PS argue that he lacks the necessary qualifications for such a significant role, especially given that the **Port of Sines** is the largest port in the country. The appointment's timing has led to speculation about the motivations behind it, especially in light of the political climate.

### Educational Background
Ramos holds a degree in **Law** and began his political journey in the municipality of **Santiago do Cacém**, where he served as a municipal assembly member and later as a councilor.

*Note: This article was corrected at 5:30 PM to clarify that Pedro do Ó Ramos is not the current Secretary of State for the Sea but held that position in the XX Constitutional Government.*

Executivo vai nomear ex-secretário de Estado do Mar para substituir José Luís Cacho na Administração dos Portos de Sines e do Algarve. Escolha está a causar incómodo entre alguns setores socialistas.

Government Appoints Pedro do Ó Ramos as New Head of Sines and Algarve Ports Amid Controversy

**The PS is 'absolutely cohesive'** in managing the political crisis, placing full responsibility on the Government. Carla Tavares, an MEP and President of the Lisbon Urban Area Federation (FAUL) of the PS, has issued a challenge to the Government to withdraw the **confidence motion**, emphasizing that the socialists have consistently stated they would reject it.  

"It is naturally in the hands of the PSD and the Government leader to withdraw the confidence motion," Tavares stated to journalists after a meeting with federation presidents and PS Secretary-General Pedro Nuno Santos. **The PS stands firm** on its position regarding this motion, asserting that it has been the guarantor of stability throughout the year. Tavares reiterated the call for the Government to provide the necessary clarifications and reconsider its position on the confidence motion.  

**The PS has been clear** in its refusal to support any confidence motions, having already rejected two censure motions while enabling the Government's program. Following remarks from Miguel Pinto Luz, Minister of Infrastructure and Housing, stressing that neither the PSD nor the Prime Minister desires early elections, Tavares reaffirmed, "The Socialist Party does not want elections, and neither does the PS Secretary-General."  

When questioned about changes in circumstances since the electoral night of March 10, Tavares maintained that the PS's position remains unchanged regarding the confidence motion. She also addressed concerns about a potential political crisis affecting municipal elections or investments backed by the Recovery and Resilience Plan, emphasizing the **internal unity** of the federation presidents.  

**The Parliament is set to debate** the confidence motion presented by the minority PSD/CDS-PP government next Tuesday, which is expected to be rejected by the PS. The rejection of this confidence vote would lead to the Government's resignation, with the President of the Republic already indicating that possible dates for early legislative elections could be May 11 or 18.

Carla Tavares garante que o PS não quer eleições, mas lembra que os socialistas sempre disseram que chumbariam uma moção de confiança. “Está nas mãos” do PSD e de Montenegro retirar a moção.

Political Tensions Rise: PS Challenges Government Over Confidence Motion

**ARA – Algarve Rent-a-Car Association** held its General Assembly on February 25 at the **Mónaco Hotel** in Faro. This significant event marked the **15th anniversary** of the association, celebrating its journey and achievements over the years.  
  
Key agenda items included the **approval of financial accounts for 2024**, discussions on the **future communication strategy for 2025**, and reflections on the association's role in the region.  
  
With over **30 member companies**, ARA aims to enhance its advocacy for the **rent-a-car industry** in the Algarve, promoting a more **sustainable and innovative sector**. The new communication plan focuses on boosting the visibility and credibility of the car rental sector, thereby enhancing the Algarve's reputation as a premier tourist destination.  
  
**Armando Santana**, the president of ARA, emphasized the association's commitment to elevating the industry's standards and supporting its members. He stated that **2025** will be a pivotal year for ARA as they implement their long-awaited communication strategy to meet the objectives set by the association's leadership.

A ARA – Associação das Empresas de Rent-a-Car do Algarve realizou, no dia 25 de fevereiro, uma Assembleia Geral no Hotel Mónaco, em Faro.

Celebrating 15 Years of Excellence: ARA's General Assembly Highlights Future Goals

### A Historic Milestone

**50 years ago**, Portugal celebrated its first **International Women's Day** with a significant women’s demonstration. The **Democratic Women’s Movement (MDM)**, which organized the event, has played a crucial role in advocating for women's rights throughout its more than **50 years of existence**.

### Celebrating Achievements and Advocating for Rights

On this **March 8, 2025**, the MDM commemorates achievements, advocates for **unfulfilled rights**, and emphasizes the vital role of women in building a **progressive, democratic, equal, and peaceful society**.

### A Day of Protest and Celebration

Before the commemorative event, which **Mais Algarve** streamed live on all social platforms, a protest took place outside the **Teatro das Figuras** in **Faro**, despite inclement weather.

### Watch the Commemorative Event

Check out the commemorative spectacle of this event:  
![Commemorative Event](https://www.youtube.com/embed/58pv4UzS230)

Há precisamente 50 anos, celebrou-se, pela primeira vez em Portugal, o Dia Internacional da Mulher, com uma grande manifestação de mulheres. O Movimento

Portugal's Bold €5 Billion Investment Plan to Revolutionize Water Management

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Other Latest News

Paulo Rangel's Bold Claim: PS Holds the Key to Political Stability in Portugal

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Portugal's Government Unveils New Mobility Subsidy Model for Azores and Madeira

Government Appoints Pedro do Ó Ramos as New Head of Sines and Algarve Ports Amid Controversy

Political Tensions Rise: PS Challenges Government Over Confidence Motion

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Other Latest News

Paulo Rangel's Bold Claim: PS Holds the Key to Political Stability in Portugal

Discover the Top 15 Stunning Looks from ModaLisboa's Final Day

Portugal's Government Unveils New Mobility Subsidy Model for Azores and Madeira

Government Appoints Pedro do Ó Ramos as New Head of Sines and Algarve Ports Amid Controversy

Political Tensions Rise: PS Challenges Government Over Confidence Motion

Celebrating 15 Years of Excellence: ARA's General Assembly Highlights Future Goals

Celebrating 50 Years of Women's Rights: International Women's Day in Portugal