While we remain naturally concerned with the challenges of the present, there is a silent transformation happening in Portugal that could have a much greater impact in the next decade than many imagine. While we discuss the present, Portugal is welcoming the future.

Recently, we learned that the arrival of thousands of Nvidia processors destined for Start Campus' data centre had such a significant impact that it helped boost the numbers of national investment and Portuguese economic growth itself. This doesn't happen every day. When the import of technology can influence national economic indicators, it means that we are facing something much greater than a simple business investment.

For decades, Portugal has sought to find its place in an increasingly global and technological economy. We invested in tourism, the export industry, services and real estate. All of this is still important. But today, a new opportunity is emerging: to participate directly in the infrastructure that supports artificial intelligence and the European digital economy.

Most people use digital tools on a daily basis without thinking about the enormous computing power required to make them work. Whenever we use a search engine, a cloud platform, an artificial intelligence application or a digital service, there are huge data centres processing information in real time. And it is precisely in this sector that Portugal is beginning to gain relevance.

Sines brings together characteristics that few places in Europe can offer simultaneously. It has access to renewable energy, room to grow, international connections through submarine cables and a strategic geographical position. It is no coincidence that international companies are choosing Portugal to install some of the largest technological investments made on the continent.

But the most important thing is not just the buildings or the equipment. These are the effects that these investments can generate around you. More qualified employment, more search for national talent, more research, more technology companies and greater capacity to attract new projects related to artificial intelligence.

Of course, there are challenges. It will be necessary to strengthen energy infrastructure, speed up administrative processes and ensure that the country trains the necessary professionals to respond to this new demand. But, for the first time in many years, Portugal is in a position where it is not just following a global trend. You are part of it.

Perhaps that is why what is happening in Sines deserves much more attention. Because we're not just talking about technology. We are talking about an opportunity for Portugal to occupy a relevant place in one of the greatest economic and technological transformations of our time.