🌍 My Second Visit to Manchester as Mayor, as European, and as a Proud Thetfordian.

This past weekend marked a very special moment, as I returned to Manchester to take part in the 4th EU Citizens’ Gathering, held on 11 July 2025 at the University of Manchester – the first time the event was hosted outside of London.

More than 30 speakers and 150 participants were present, including high-level representatives from EU embassies, UK and EU policymakers, academics, NGOs, and business leaders, all coming together to celebrate the contribution of EU citizens across the United Kingdom.

The day included:

• Opening remarks from Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, and EU Ambassador Pedro Serrano

• Discussions on the future of EU–UK relations with Lord Kirkhope, Bulgarian Ambassador Tihomir Stoytchev, Emma Knaggs (European Movement UK), among others

• Interactive workshops led by organisations such as The3million, Roma Support Group, SAFE Alliance Scotland, Settled, Black Europeans, and many more

• Inspiring speeches from European Parliament Vice-President Katarina Barley and EU Commissioner for Justice Michael McGrath, who both emphasised the importance of citizenship, inclusion, and solidarity

• And an insightful contribution by João Graça Gomes of the World Energy Council, who brought to the table key reflections on sustainable energy futures and interregional cooperation, particularly in relation to youth engagement across Europe

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As Mayor of Thetford, it was a true honour to represent my town, a place that made history by electing me, a Portuguese woman, first as a local councillor, and now as Mayor. I stood with pride before fellow EU citizens and British officials, sharing the great trust that Thetford has placed in me.

Despite its conservative roots, Thetford is a town that has always been ahead of its time – resilient, inclusive, and forward-thinking. Even in the face of recent challenges, I was proud to highlight the tremendous support from both our local authorities and the wider community. Thetford is, and always will be, my home.

Throughout the day, I engaged with a wide range of stakeholders and decision-makers from both the UK and the EU, from grassroots movements like Glasgow for Europe, to senior figures such as Vice-President Barley, Commissioner McGrath, and João Graça Gomes of the World Energy Council. Together, we reflected not only on where we have been, but where we are going – towards a future of cooperation, sustainability, and shared opportunity.

There were also difficult but necessary discussions, particularly regarding the UK’s approach to border management after Brexit. It was widely acknowledged that the country lacked a clear strategy and bilateral agreements with EU nations, which contributed to a sharp rise in illegal immigration, from over 200,000 to nearly one million annually.

With new agreements now being developed, there is growing optimism that illegal crossings will reduce, and that a more stable and constructive relationship between the UK and the EU will take shape. Importantly, programmes such as Horizon Europe are once again offering valuable opportunities for young people, especially in the fields of research, innovation, and education.

I return from Manchester inspired, connected, and more determined than ever, not only to continue serving Thetford, but to champion its future.

It is my mission to raise the value and visibility of businesses in Thetford, by promoting them across neighbouring regions and European countries, while actively working to attract investment to our town.

Thetford has so much potential, and I will continue to use every platform available to showcase it, connect it, and help it thrive.