Myanmar hosts 16th ASEAN Working Group on Forest Management meeting

Myanmar hosted the 16th ASEAN Working Group on Forest Management meeting virtually in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation discussed matters in connexion with the important role of forest products, which support economic growth and rural residents for the sustainable development of the country, 42.19 per cent of forest coverage areas according to the FRA 2020 report, the conservation of soil and water resources, biodiversity and stability of the ecosystem.
He then highlighted the implementation of the forest management system according to the changing world situation and industrial development by switching from sustainable development to everlasting development.
He also clarified Myanmar Reforestation and Rehabilitation Plan (2017-2018 to 2026-2027), Re-establishing Natural Habitat Programme (2019-2020 to 2028-2029), National REDD+ Strategies, MTLAS and FLEGT being conducted in the country.
He continued that Myanmar faces some challenges in the forest management sector due to the weak techniques, funds and COVID-19 pandemic.
He then expressed the willingness to cooperate with the ASEAN member countries in overcoming such challenges.
The ASEAN Forest officials and representatives of the ASEAN secretariat joined the meeting online.
The Deputy Directors-General, Directors of the Forest Department were present at the meeting. — MNA