The Online 11th Forestry Meeting marked an important step forward in continuing cooperation under the APD – SEE project, within the Forestry component, for the upcoming three-year period. The meeting brought together forestry and climate experts with a shared goal: to develop integrated, forward-looking solutions that address climate challenges while strengthening the SEE forestry sector in alignment with EU standards.
A central focus of the discussion was enhancing collaboration between forestry and climate experts to ensure that future climate solutions are holistic and sustainable. Participants emphasized the importance of integrating Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) approaches in both agriculture and forestry, aiming to create a unified framework that reflects cross-sectoral priorities.
Within the new phase of the Forestry component, efforts will be directed toward addressing EU acquis requirements across all relevant chapters. This includes aligning national frameworks with EU standards, with particular attention to linkages across Chapters 27 (Environment and Climate Change), 11 (Agriculture and Rural Development), 12 (Food Safety), 22 (Regional Policy), and 15 (Energy). A broader overview of the current level of EU alignment, including methodologies and implementation gaps, will be developed as a foundation for future work.
Key priorities identified during the meeting include:
- Development of national plans aligned with EU forestry and environmental policies
- Improvement of monitoring systems and data collection
- Introduction of innovative tools and approaches in forest management
- Strengthening institutional and technical capacities
Regional cooperation was highlighted as a critical component for success. Continued collaboration with partners such as HessenForst and IAK will be further enhanced, with a focus on knowledge exchange and best practices.
Specific roles and responsibilities were outlined to guide the next steps:
- Establishment of methodology, define the overall context, and identify key stakeholders
- To coordinate the development of a joint structure for discussions, followed by deeper analysis of narrative and technical details
- To conduct a comprehensive gap analysis, identifying key topics, stakeholders, and opportunities, while organizing focus groups and developing supporting elements
In addition, attention will be given to identifying less visible aspects relevant to forestry, including regulatory and cross-cutting elements embedded within broader EU chapters, such as nature restoration policies and related legislative frameworks.
To support national-level coordination, a dedicated meeting will be organized with representatives from relevant ministries. This will ensure alignment of priorities and strengthen institutional cooperation.
Upcoming activities and milestones include:
- Submission of the Expression of Interest and finalization of contracts by the end of April
- Participation at the 12th REAWG meeting on Forestry in Tirana (6 May)
- Participation in the EU4Green Conference in Tirana (7–8 May)
- Participation in the Agricultural Policy Forum in Prishtina (2–5 June)
- Establishment of the REAWG on Land Fire Management
- Planned study excursion to Brussels to facilitate direct engagement with EU institutions
The 11th Forestry Meeting reaffirmed the commitment of all stakeholders to advancing sustainable forest management, improving regional cooperation, and accelerating progress toward EU integration. Through coordinated efforts, innovative approaches, and strengthened partnerships, the Forestry component will play a vital role in addressing climate challenges and supporting the long-term resilience of the WB region.
