Tunis — The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in association with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries is organizing from April 5 to 9 in Hammamet the 19th edition of the Near East Forestry Commission (NEFC).

Representatives from 20 Middle Eastern countries are gathering to discuss "Forests, Pastures and Adaptation to Climate Changes." The five-day regional meeting aims at setting up a coherent system for the sustainable management of forests and pastures in the Middle East, boost cooperation between countries of the region, as well as to exchange expertise.

The 19th edition will be an opportunity to discuss several issues such as "sustainable management of forests and pastures," "pastures, forestry policies and sustainable development," "fauna and protection of forests against fire" and "biodiversity and climate changes".

An exhibition on the achievements of participating countries will also be held. Workshops on ways to combat forest fires, climate change and preserving Tunisian forest resources are also on the agenda.

Created in 1953, the Near East Forestry Commission (NEFC) is one of the six regional forestry commissions set up under the aegis of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). It is a forum that discusses and addresses forest-related issues at a regional level.