European forest partnership of 28 countries brings project actors and international stakeholders to Helsinki

The FOREST – European Partnership for Forests initiative was launched in the beginning of June, with the process led by the Finnish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Almost 100 organisations participate in the 10-year project. This week a total of more than 150 project actors and representatives of international stakeholders convened at a launch event in Helsinki.

The co-funded FOREST partnership strengthens research and innovation cooperation in the European forest sector and improves impact and exchange of information among the member countries. Almost EUR 240 million in funding has been allocated for the project that also aims to bring research-based knowledge more strongly to decision-making. 

The partnership builds common solutions for sustainable use of forests in the rapidly changing environment. It is founded on the networks of European entities constructed over the past 20 years that focus on developing research and innovation activities in the forest sector. Finland has had an important role in these. 
The kick-off event in Helsinki was opened by Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Sari Essayah on Tuesday 13 October 2026.

“Finland is proud to serve as the coordinator of the FOREST partnership. Let us use this opportunity to strengthen European cooperation and ensure that our forests continue to support human wellbeing, natural environment and future generations,” the Minister Essayah said.

Finland’s strong forest expertise supports the coordination of the partnership