Turkey Calls on FAO for International Coordination for Center in Antalya

The General Directorate of Forestry made a strategic call at the FAO session in Rome for the International Forestry Training Center in Antalya to be utilized as an international coordination center for major forest fires in the Mediterranean climate zone.

Strategic Proposal at FAO Session

General Director of Forestry Bekir Karacabey attended the 28th Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization Committee on Forestry held in Rome, Italy. Turkey's experiences in forestry and opportunities for international cooperation were evaluated during the session.

Increase in Turkey's Forest Assets

Bekir Karacabey stated that Turkey has increased its forest assets to 30 percent of the country's total land area. According to FAO reports, Turkey ranks fourth in the world among countries achieving the greatest increase in this field, with 23.4 million hectares of forest assets.

Global Success in Reforestation Efforts

It was emphasized that thanks to campaigns initiated across the country in the past period, Turkey ranks first in Europe and third in the world in the reforestation category. It was stated that more than 90 percent of Turkey's forests consist of natural forests.

Importance of Forests for Agriculture

Drawing attention to the critical role forests play in global food security, it was stated that forests are the insurance of agriculture. The importance of forest ecosystems in terms of soil conservation and the sustainability of agricultural water resources was shared with the participants.

International Base Proposal for Antalya

It was requested that the International Forestry Training Center in Antalya serve as a joint coordination center in the fight against major forest fires in the Mediterranean zone. Studies have been initiated to provide joint training and conduct risk assessments at this center.