During the 10th Forests Europe Ministerial held in Stockholm, Sweden, participating countries signed the Stockholm Ministerial Declaration.

According to the press service of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, alongside other European Member States, Karlo Amirgulashvili, Head of the Forest Policy Department at the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture of Georgia, has also officially signed the Declaration.

The declaration aims to advance the development of a sustainable forest management system both nationally and internationally, promoting the practical application of relevant principles and approaches. It places particular emphasis on climate change adaptation, diversification of forest resources, mobilisation of financial resources, support for forestry education and sector promotion, as well as raising public awareness and fostering effective communication with stakeholders.

“Participation in the Ministerial, as a signatory to the Forests for Europe process, is significant for Georgia. It helps raise awareness, showcases ongoing reforms in the forest sector, and facilitates the sharing of best international practices in sustainable forest management. In collaboration with international partners, Georgia is committed to actively working towards the implementation of European standards in the environmental and forestry sectors,” stated Karlo Amirgulashvili.

The 10th Ministerial in Stockholm was held under the slogan “Sustainable Forests for Sustainable Societies”.

Forests for Europe is a high-level political platform for cooperation on sustainable forest management issues, established in 1990. The process involves 46 countries and relevant EU institutions, which work together to develop shared visions and strategies for the protection and sustainable management of forests. Georgia has been a member of this process since 2003.