The Portuguese became famous as navigators. Throughout the centuries, they developed a notable work in different areas: a great spirit of initiative, appropriate planning, substantial technological development, admirable courage and strong persistence.
 
In spite of the mistakes made, Portugal gained, during the Discoveries, the world's respect and consideration, becoming then one of the dominant powers.
 
The Portuguese never ceased being seen as a people of navigators and fishermen, what certainly contributed to this was the fact that we have an important sea-shore, an enormous and wealthy maritime area and, traditionally, a strong fishing fleet.
 
Years went by. The Atlantic still bathes the western and southern coasts, as well as Madeira and the Azores. However, the Portuguese let their fishing fleet grow old and almost disappear, and lost a great deal of their fishing habits. Besides, they didn't properly defend the wealth of our territorial sea, allowing our Spanish neighbours (who knew how to remain owners of one of the largest fleets in the world and lords of a great armada) to fish there, along with many others, whatever and whenever they wanted.
 
They also weren't able to develop new aquatic sciences and new industries to make use of the resources in the sea.
 
And what we have left is the pessimistic perspective that our country is small, our fleet is torn, we almost don't have an armada, our sea is depleted... enough!
 
Aren't the Portuguese today made of the same "stuff" as those from the past? Isn't our EEZ a considerable area, capable of being enriched in the medium or long run? Isn't it possible to rebuild a new fishing fleet of an appropriate size? Isn't it useful to invest in the scientific development of the area? Isn't it possible to renew the armada? Isn't it feasible to develop the industry in this area?
Each of us can make several reflections about these questions. But may some be able to perform the work that this country needs.
 
An old Chinese saying  says: "if you find a poor hungry man, don't give him a fish, teach him to fish". May the Portuguese take appropriate advantage of the community funds available to relearn how to live with "their" sea.
 
 

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