A new metropolis in Minho?

Dear friends, just as the Algarve is a region in the south known for its unique coasts and warm climate; Minho is at the northwestern tip of Portugal, a completely different world with its lush nature and towns steeped in history. It is home to magnificent cities such as Guimarães, which is considered the birthplace of the country, and Braga, which is considered a historical and religious center. Moreover, this is the homeland of the world-famous Vinho Verde wine, which delights us with its refreshing, light structure. Now let's come to an important development that directly concerns the future of the region and will move the stones in the field... A New Power is Emerging in the North: Minho Metropolitan Area The mayors of Braga and Guimarães came together at a hotel on the border of the two municipalities and announced that they had officially started a process that can be considered historic for the region. My goal is clear: to create a stronger regional actor vis-à-vis Lisbon by establishing the Minho Metropolitan Area. Braga Mayor João Rodrigues stood in front of journalists and expressed their determination with the following words: “Both our municipal councils and mayors are firmly committed to starting the process of creating the Minho Metropolitan Area here today.” Rodrigues emphasized that this move will not be limited to just two cities, but that Braga and Guimarães, the two largest urban engines of the region, have an obligation to take responsibility. He also clearly stated that they would not be stuck with the clumsy mentality of saying "let's research, let's think about it", which we have frequently encountered in recent years. This metropolitan dynamic is already a reality felt in daily life for those living in the region. What is intended to be done is; To transform this potential into projects that will directly increase the quality of life of citizens with common policies and the right tools. Rodrigues attributed the ability to take such a concrete step to the strong dialogue and harmony established between the two municipalities. "A Day That Made History" Guimarães Mayor Ricardo Araújo also described the signatures and the process initiated as "a day that made history." Stating that they also contacted other municipalities in the Cávado and Ave regions, Araújo summarized the details of the issue as follows: "Our region needed a common structure in Lisbon that would make its voice heard loudly, direct resources and funds correctly, and harmonize efforts. Today, we are laying the foundation for exactly this." Reminding that the process is completely voluntary, that they do not leave anyone out and that the doors are open to everyone, Araújo signaled that other Minho municipalities such as Viana do Castelo may join this metropolis in the future. In summary, the winds of cooperation are blowing in the north. We will follow together how this step taken to manage the region's resources from a single source, in a stronger and more coordinated manner will be reflected on the field.