Forest restoration and support for the forestry sector: outcomes of the Forest Friends for Ukraine Working Group meeting

«In the context of the full-scale war, it is crucial for Ukraine to lay a solid foundation for forest restoration and the sustainable development of the forestry sector. Together with our international partners, we discussed these issues during the online meeting of the Forest Friends for Ukraine (FFU) Working Group within the framework of the FOREST EUROPE process», - said Head of the State Forest Resources Agency of Ukraine, Viktor Smal.

He added that the establishment of this Working Group was supported by the signatory countries of FOREST EUROPE during the 10th Ministerial Conference in Stockholm in early June, and discussions on the practical aspects of its operation are already underway.

«During the meeting, we reviewed the Working Group’s Concept Note, its Work Plan for 2026, and the establishment of a Multi-Donor Trust Fund, which will serve as an effective instrument for coordinating long-term international assistance to Ukraine’s forestry sector», - Viktor Smal noted.

Among the priorities for the coming period are the development of a support strategy for Ukraine’s forestry sector for 2027–2031 and the preparation of a matrix outlining needs and available resources.

«We are being very clear with our partners: time is of the essence for us. That is why we must develop the operational rules for both the Working Group and the Multi-Donor Trust Fund as quickly as possible. To move forward efficiently, we need transparent procedures, effective coordination, and sustainable financing. This is exactly what we are working on together now», - emphasized the Head of the State Forest Resources Agency.

According to him, all parties involved are currently building not merely a support mechanism, but a long-term system for the restoration and development of Ukraine’s forests in partnership with Europe.

«I would like to thank all the countries that supported the Forest Friends for Ukraine initiative. It has become a practical response to the real challenges of restoring and developing Ukraine’s forestry sector during a full-scale war. We are also grateful to the FOREST EUROPE participants for their solidarity and willingness to move from political decisions to tangible results», - Viktor Smal concluded.