Australian Ambassador strengthens scientific and diplomatic engagement during visit to the AIR Centre

On 9 September, the Australian Ambassador to Portugal, Dr. Helen Cheney, who also serves as Ambassador to Cabo Verde, Guinea Bissau and São Tomé and Príncipe, visited the AIR Centre on Terceira Island as part of her official programme in the Azores. The visit emphasized scientific cooperation and the growing relevance of the Atlantic in Australia’s international engagement.

During her time at the AIR Centre, Ambassador Cheney met with Executive Director Miguel Miranda and the Azores based team. She received an overview of the organisation’s mission, its current activities and its international cooperation model focused on the Atlantic. The discussion highlighted shared interests in ocean science, climate and environmental monitoring, biodiversity and space based technologies.

The meeting highlighted collaboration opportunities and established a solid basis for future bilateral initiatives, marking an important step toward expanding the AIR Centre’s global network and advancing shared priorities in sustainability and international research.

Beyond her engagement at the AIR Centre, Ambassador Cheney’s visit to Terceira contributed to strengthening institutional ties with regional authorities, including the Municipality of Angra do Heroísmo. Her presence reinforced Australia’s commitment to deepening its relationship with the Autonomous Region of the Azores.

[PC, 11 September 2026]