AFoCO and IUFRO Sign MoU to Foster Long-term Partnership in Forest Research and Knowledge Sharing

In a landmark agreement, Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) and International Union of Forest Research Organization (IUFRO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on December 16, 2024, at AFoCO’s Secretariat in Seoul, Republic of Korea. This partnership establishes a framework for collaboration to advance forest science and sustainable management across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

This agreement builds on a solid foundation of mutual trust and recognition. During its Ninth Session held on October 25-26, 2023, in Seoul, Republic of Korea, the Assembly of AFoCO officially endorsed IUFRO as a Partner Organization. This endorsement acknowledged IUFRO’s strong credibility and global expertise in the forest and forestry sector, reinforcing its role as an ideal collaborator for advancing forest cooperation initiatives.

Under this MoU, AFoCO and IUFRO will focus on strengthening the exchange of technical expertise and providing strategic leadership within AFoCO’s thematic areas and IUFRO’s institutional goals. A particular focus will be placed on knowledge sharing, capacity building, and supporting evidence-based decision-making.

The organizations will collaborate in critical areas, including:

• Joint research initiatives and scientific assessments
• Capacity development activities for forest professionals and scientists
• Knowledge dissemination through publications and outreach
• Technical cooperation in forestry and climate change adaptation and mitigation
• Collaborative efforts to mobilize financial resources to promote sustainable forest management

This MoU represents a significant milestone in fostering innovative approaches to forest sustainability practices. By combining AFoCO’s mission to create resilient forests, landscapes, and communities with IUFRO’s global expertise in forest research, this partnership paves the way for impactful collaborations that address pressing environmental challenges and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

Submitted by CHA Minkyu, Carbon Projects Team

Photo caption: 

(From left) Chongho Park, Executive Director of AFoCO, and Daniela Kleinschmit, President of IUFRO, signing the MoU