Forest diplomacy as a key element in addressing sustainable development challenges

Meeting of heads of diplomatic missions in Slovenia on forest diplomacy. | Author Gozdarski inštitut Slovenije

As the third most forested country in Europe, Slovenia has a long-standing tradition of systematic, nature-friendly and multifunctional forest management. This places the country in a strong position to share knowledge and examples of good practice with the international community across a range of areas, including foreign policy. Climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation and international development cooperation are among the fields in which Slovenia already contributes forestry expertise in support of sustainable development objectives and the promotion of a sustainable economy.

Ambassador Mateja Vodeb Ghosh, Head of the Department for Global Challenges, emphasised: "Sustainable and nature-friendly forest management recognises forests as vital ecosystems that support biodiversity and provide habitats for numerous plant and animal species. Forests are also an important source of economic activity, a space for social interaction and a repository of cultural heritage. Today, they also play a crucial role in strengthening resilience to climate change."

The meeting included presentations on development cooperation initiatives in Mongolia, Georgia and Guyana, with particular emphasis on the role of women in forestry.

It also provided a valuable opportunity to present the work of Slovenia's leading forestry institutions and to encourage further exchanges of expertise in this field. Slovenian forest educational trails were also showcased.

Participants agreed that nature is humanity's greatest ally when treated with respect. As part of the accompanying programme, they planted new trees at the foot of the popular walking trail leading to Rožnik Hill as a symbol of future cooperation.

The meeting took place at the Slovenian Forestry Institute in Ljubljana and was attended by around 40 representatives of the diplomatic corps and international organisations based in Slovenia.