**Admiral Gouveia e Melo** is expected to formally announce his candidacy for the **Presidency of the Republic** in **March 2024**. This information was reported by **SIC**. 

The current Chief of Staff of the Navy has already informed **Defense Minister Nuno Melo** that he does not wish to be reappointed to his position, which concludes at the end of this year. Gouveia e Melo is set to transition to retirement in March, thus becoming eligible to launch his campaign for **Belém**, aiming to succeed **Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa**. 

The **presidential election** is scheduled for **2026**. Gouveia e Melo gained public prominence during the **COVID-19 pandemic**, where he led the **task force** responsible for the vaccination plan from March to September 2021. His successful management of the vaccination effort brought him significant public recognition and admiration.

Almirante deverá formalizar a decisão em março do próximo ano.

Admiral Gouveia e Melo Set to Announce Presidential Bid for Belém in March 2024

**The AMAL – Intermunicipal Community of Algarve** has officially approved its **2025 budget** amounting to **€18.7 million** during the second Ordinary Session of this year, held on Tuesday, the 3rd of November in **Albufeira**. This budget aims to address critical areas and enhance local governance.  

In addition to the budget approval, a **Vote of Praise** was presented, recognizing the **Governments of Portugal and Spain** for the **Iberian Summit** that took place in Faro.  

### Key Management Documents Approved  
During the session, essential management documents for the upcoming year were ratified, including the **Major Options of the Plan and Budget**. These documents highlight priority areas for AMAL's work, including:  
- **Operationalizing new instruments** through contracting programs linked to **European funds**.  
- Focus on **mobility**, **environment**, and **social sectors** as priority areas for 2025.  

### Leadership Presence and Discussions  
The session saw the participation of **AMAL's Vice-President Ana Paula Martins** and **First Secretary Joaquim Brandão Pires**. Martins, who is also the President of Tavira City Council, addressed various issues raised by deputies, such as the **Mobile Slaughterhouse**, the **Coastal Zone Planning Review**, and the performance of **ALGAR** in the Algarve region.  

Martins emphasized ongoing discussions regarding the **electricity distribution network**, the **Social Development Plan** for Algarve, particularly in **education**, and efforts to combat **school failure**. She also highlighted the **Water Efficiency** initiatives, managing around **€44 million** under the Regional Water Efficiency Plan, noting successful project execution across nearly all municipalities.  

### Assembly Engagement and Future Meetings  
Of the **58 members** of the Intermunicipal Assembly, **49 deputies** from various political forces attended the meeting. Since its establishment, the Assembly has convened in **seven municipalities** across the Algarve, part of the **Intermunicipal Assembly in Motion** initiative led by **President José Águas da Cruz** to decentralize sessions.  

**Ordinary meetings** of the AMAL Intermunicipal Assembly are held twice a year, with the next one scheduled for **April 2025**.

Comunidade Intermunicipal do Algarve terá um orçamento de 18,7 milhões de euros, no ano que vem

Algarve's AMAL Approves 2025 Budget of €18.7 Million Amid New Initiatives

### Major Drug Laboratory Dismantled

The **Judicial Police (PJ)** has successfully dismantled one of the largest drug laboratories in Europe, located in the **Western region of Portugal**. This operation, known as **Operation Pacoba**, was revealed on December 5th, leading to the arrest of **seven men** and the seizure of nearly **1500 kilograms of cocaine**, firearms, cash, and several vehicles.

### Organized Crime Network

The criminal group behind this operation was described as **"highly organized"**, specializing in the **introduction of significant quantities of cocaine into mainland Europe**. This lab is noted as the **largest industrial facility for cocaine extraction, processing, and packaging** detected in Portugal and ranks among the largest in Europe.

Four of the arrested individuals are Portuguese, while two are Colombian and one Moroccan, with ages ranging from **29 to 56 years**.

### International Cooperation

The investigation was initiated following a collaboration with law enforcement agencies in **Colombia**, **Spain**, and three U.S. agencies: the **Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)**, **Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)**, and **Customs and Border Protection (CBP)**.

In May, the PJ had previously seized **986 kilograms of cocaine** hidden in a shipping container from Colombia, disguised within boxes of bananas, which led to the identification of several suspects.

### Recent Developments

The investigation culminated in **20 search warrants** and **four arrest warrants**, all executed on December 3rd. During the raid, authorities discovered an industrial lab containing **460 kilograms of processed cocaine** and **32.5 kilograms** in the processing stage. Three men were caught in the act, and authorities seized two firearms, a press, laboratory equipment, substantial quantities of chemicals, and a significant amount of cash.

In total, Operation Pacoba has resulted in the **seizure of 1478.5 kilograms of cocaine**, three firearms, large amounts of cash, several vehicles, and the dismantling of the lab. The investigation is ongoing.

PJ desmantelou um dos maiores laboratórios de droga da Europa. Funcionava a partir na zona Oeste e é o maior do país. Sete homens foram detidos e quase 1500 kg de cocaína foram apreendidos.

Massive Drug Lab Busted in Portugal: A Major Blow to European Trafficking Networks

### **59-Year-Old Arrested for Cannabis Cultivation and Illegal Weapons in Algarve**

The **Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR)** arrested a **59-year-old man** on Tuesday in the Algarve for **cultivating cannabis** and possessing **prohibited weapons** including a tactical crossbow, two recurve bows, 27 darts, and 21 arrows.

According to the GNR's statement, the suspect had been under investigation for about **two months**. During a search of his residence, authorities uncovered a **greenhouse** used for cannabis cultivation, complete with **drying, packaging, and storing equipment** for the drugs, along with the illegal weapons.

In addition to the weapons and cultivation equipment, the GNR seized **224 cannabis plants**, **3,358 doses**, five bottles of **cannabidiol oil**, and two mobile phones.

![Seized Material by GNR](https://media-manager.noticiasaominuto.com/gallery/1920/naom_675154fad1b91.jpg)
*Seized Material by GNR © Guarda Nacional Republicana*

The operation involved reinforcements from the **Intervention Detachment (DI) of Faro**, the **Nature and Environment Protection Service (SEPNA)** of Tavira, and the **Territorial Post of Tavira**. Following the operation, the arrested individual was charged, and the case will be handled by the **Judicial Court of Tavira**.

O homem andava a ser investigado pela GNR há cerca de dois meses.

59-Year-Old Man Arrested for Cannabis Cultivation and Illegal Weapons in Algarve

### Finance Minister's Interview Highlights

In a recent interview with RTP, **Finance Minister Joaquim Miranda Sarmento** expressed strong confidence that the government will reach an agreement with the **firefighters** despite recent protests in **Lisbon**. He emphasized the need for **balance** among various public service careers.

![Image of Joaquim Miranda Sarmento](https://cdn-images.rtp.pt/icm/noticias/images/75/7526b6d32bdc6583e43afc4de4db7623?w=860&q=90&rect=0,164,1391,763)
*Joaquim Miranda Sarmento criticized "executive decisions that Parliament should not have made".*

### Budget Concerns

Regarding the **2024 State Budget**, Sarmento accused the **Socialist Party (PS)** of teaming up with **Chega** to add **€1 billion** in expenses, arguing that they were acting as if they could replace the government. He pointed out that the proposed increase for starting firefighters' salaries—**€360 by 2027**—is comparable to that of security forces.

He also addressed warnings from the **Bank of Portugal**'s governor, **Mário Centeno**, concerning the increase in current expenses, attributing most to **decisions made by the previous government**.

### Economic Growth Outlook

Sarmento assured that state spending remains **"controlled"** and predicted a **positive economic evolution** in **2025**. He mentioned that a proposed **1% reduction in corporate tax (IRC)**, as part of the 2025 budget, could yield significant results based on economic theory.

![Economic Growth](https://cdn-images.rtp.pt/icm/images/34/3477c549225aa02167a8031ec93885f7_N.jpg?w=860&q=90)

He reiterated the government's goal to further reduce the **IRC rate** and highlighted that the upcoming budget is favorable as it **does not increase any taxes** and reduces several.

### Critique of Parliamentary Decisions

However, he criticized the parliament for limiting the government's discretionary power through unilateral decisions, including abolishing tolls on former **Scut** highways and cutting **VAT on electricity**, which he deemed beyond their role. He emphasized that this budget **"holds PS and Chega accountable"**.

### TAP Privatization Plans

On the topic of **TAP**, the national airline, Sarmento confirmed the government's intention to privatize by **2025** but stated there is no rush, prioritizing the achievement of objectives over speed.

For those interested, the full interview can be viewed [here](https://www.rtp.pt/play/p12659/e813831/grande-entrevista).

O ministro das Finanças mostrou-se na última noite convicto, em entrevista à RTP, de que o Executivo vai chegar a um acordo com os bombeiros sapadores, mesmo depois dos protestos desta semana em Lisboa. Joaquim Miranda Sarmento colocou a tónica no equilíbrio entre carreiras na máquina do Estado. Quando ao Orçamento do Estado para o próximo ano, acusou o PS de, em aliança com o Chega, ter acrescentado mil milhões de euros em despesa, considerando "que se podia substituir ao Governo".


Finance Minister Confident of Agreement with Firefighters Amid Protests

## Immigration Regularization Update

The **Minister of the Presidency**, António Leitão Amaro, has reported significant progress in the immigration regularization process, revealing that the **Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA)** is now handling **5,000 immigrant cases per day**. This marks a substantial increase from only **800 cases daily** six months ago, with **113,000 cases currently in progress** and **108,000 cases rejected**.

## Background on Immigration Cases

In June, there were **400,000 pending applications** for immigrant regularization. The minister explained that this backlog is a result of previous government policies that lacked effective immigration strategies. The recent surge in processing capacity has allowed the government to address more than **half of the pending cases**.

## Importance for Immigrants and Citizens

This initiative is crucial for many immigrants who previously lived without proper documentation, which severely limited their access to housing and the job market. By resolving these cases, the government aims to enhance both the security and well-being of the Portuguese populace.

## Rejection and Future Projections

While the current statistics are promising, there remains a significant number of cases that still need to be addressed. The government acknowledges that the number of pending cases may not reach the original **400,000** due to individuals having left Portugal during the lengthy wait times.

## Integration and Economic Contributions

Minister Amaro emphasized that **immigrants contribute significantly** to the Portuguese economy, contributing **€2.6 billion** to social security while receiving only **€400 million** in benefits. This highlights the positive economic impact of immigration on the country.

## Future Plans and Policy Changes

Looking ahead, the government is working on creating a **new migration regime** that emphasizes ethical recruitment and responsibility from employers. This initiative aims to facilitate quicker processing of immigration applications while ensuring proper conditions for immigrants.

![António Leitão Amaro](https://path-to-image.com/image.jpg)

## Conclusion

The Portuguese government is taking significant steps to address immigration issues, balancing security concerns with the need for economic growth through effective immigration policies.

Ministro António Leitão Amaro faz primeiro balanço sobre os 400 mil pedidos pendentes. Governo vai propor a empresas que sejam responsáveis por alojamento e formação de novos imigrantes.

Portugal's Immigration Update: 113,000 Cases Processed Amid Rising Challenges

## Parliament's New Motorcycle Regulations

The **Portuguese Parliament** is set to pass a law that completely removes the requirement for **periodic inspections** of motorcycles. This decision is part of a broader set of proposals from the **Social Democratic Party (PSD)** aimed at improving road safety and regulations concerning motorcycles. According to **Socialist Party** deputy **Carlos Brás**, the **PS** will support all related legislation.

This legislative move highlights the ongoing discussions about motorcycle safety and transportation policies in Portugal, reflecting a significant shift in how these vehicles will be regulated moving forward. 

### Key Legislative Changes
- **No more mandatory inspections** for motorcycles.
- **Expanded access** for motorcycles in bus lanes, promoting **smoother traffic flow**.
- The proposals come amid ongoing efforts to enhance **road safety** for all vehicle types.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

PS vai viabilizar, esta quinta-feira, conjunto de medidas do PSD, que também inclui a autorização de circulação de motociclos em todos os corredores para transportes públicos.

Portugal's Parliament Approves Motorcycle Inspection Exemption and Bus Lane Access

## Where is your favourite destination and why?
My most recent discovery is **Alentejo** in rural Portugal, which remains **unspoilt** and largely **undiscovered**. Its **natural beauty** and **amazing wine** are a significant draw, and I would love to return to explore the **vineyards** and indulge in proper **wine tasting**.

## When was the last time you were there, and who were you with?
I visited in the summer with my husband Nadeem for a few **sunny, relaxing days**.

## Where do you like to stay there?
I adore **São Lourenço do Barrocal**, a stunning property reminiscent of **Architectural Digest**. Once an industrial commune, it now sits among **vineyards**, **cork trees**, and **orchards**. The design, food, and the **authenticity** of the place, which harmonizes with nature, captured my heart.

![Ravinder Bhogal](https://static.standard.co.uk/2024/12/04/16/50/PRI178852190.png?quality=75&auto=webp&width=960)

## What has been your favourite meal there?
The barbecue restaurant at the hotel is unforgettable. The **organic estate** serves dishes like **barbecue pork belly** with a crunch that’s off-the-charts and **tender vegetarian sides**, including barbecued avocado, which was a first for me.

## Where would you go for breakfast, lunch and supper?
Breakfast is a lavish spread of **fruits**, **charcuterie**, **local cheeses**, and **organic honey**. For lunch, I recommend **Hortelão**, a slow food restaurant with pool views, and for dinner, **Lagoa ò Marin Melides** for seafood rice with breathtaking ocean views.

## Favourite place for a drink?
**Tatiana**, who runs the bar at São Lourenço do Barrocal, creates cocktails using herbs and flowers from the estate, showcasing a **garden-to-glass philosophy** that’s incredibly impressive.

![Home-grown tomato soup at the Sao Lourenco do Barrocal](https://static.standard.co.uk/2024/12/04/16/31/SEI231217326.jpeg?quality=75&auto=webp&width=960)

## What would you do if you only had 24 hours there?
I would explore **Monsaraz**, a medieval mountain village with stunning views of the Atlantic. We enjoyed a drink while soaking in the panoramic scenery.

## What is the one unmissable thing you recommend doing?
Visiting the **ceramics centre** is a must. I recommend bringing an **empty suitcase** for all the beautiful pottery you’ll want to buy. It’s an adventure in itself!

## Where do you like to let your hair down?
I enjoy relaxing in my hotel suite, allowing for an early bedtime to wake up refreshed for a morning stroll.

## Who do you call to have a good time there?
I would invite friends **Nitin Sawhney** and his partner **Elle** for a perfect blend of food and adventure, with Nitin bringing his guitar.

![Alemais](https://static.standard.co.uk/2024/12/04/16/14/SEI231217422.jpeg?quality=75&auto=webp&width=960)

## Favourite shops?
The hotel shop is a treasure trove of **Portuguese designers**, local ceramics, textiles, wines, and honeys. I couldn’t resist buying a **giant cork tray**, beautiful **ceramic pieces**, and more.

## The one thing you would bring home as a souvenir?
You can’t visit Alentejo without purchasing its stunning **ceramics**. They’re affordable and beautiful, with many pieces priced under £10.

## Your favourite beauty spot?
The view from the top of **Monsaraz** is breathtaking and unforgettable.

## Your packing essential?
My essentials include **Jurlique skincare**, **Mauli supreme skin serum**, and **Blink Brow** products for perfectly groomed brows.

## A song that reminds you of the place?
I cherish the **sounds of nature** here, from bird calls to the buzzing of bees. It’s a refreshing change from my usual podcast-filled walks.

## Your dress code for the destination?
I favor **cotton dresses** and **flat sandals** for comfort, along with **kaftans** for easy styling from beach to evening.

![Packing Essentials](https://static.standard.co.uk/2024/12/04/16/28/SEI231217718.jpeg?quality=75&auto=webp&width=960)

## Building you would like to live in?
If possible, I’d love to move into **São Lourenço do Barrocal**. The ambiance is simply enchanting.

## Do you have a top wellness tip for the area?
The spa at São Lourenço do Barrocal offers **Susanne Kaufmann treatments** and uses local flora for an indulgent experience.

The restaurateur shares an undiscovered idyll of sun-dappled streets, incredible local wine and highly covetable ceramics

Admiral Gouveia e Melo Set to Announce Presidential Bid for Belém in March 2024

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Algarve's AMAL Approves 2025 Budget of €18.7 Million Amid New Initiatives

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Other Latest News

Algarve's AMAL Approves 2025 Budget of €18.7 Million Amid New Initiatives

Massive Drug Lab Busted in Portugal: A Major Blow to European Trafficking Networks

59-Year-Old Man Arrested for Cannabis Cultivation and Illegal Weapons in Algarve

Finance Minister Confident of Agreement with Firefighters Amid Protests

Portugal's Immigration Update: 113,000 Cases Processed Amid Rising Challenges

Portugal's Parliament Approves Motorcycle Inspection Exemption and Bus Lane Access

Discover the Hidden Gem of Alentejo: Ravinder Bhogal's Enchanting Experience in Portugal