Forests and forest lands play a pivotal life-supporting role in the lives of Commonwealth citizens across the globe. They provide us all with many benefits including our livelihoods, vital ecosystem services, raw materials, fuel and goods for trading. Yet these benefits are being seriously eroded by the mounting momentum of deforestation.

If we are to restore the Commonwealth's forests and preserve and expand their role in development and tackling climate change, we need to share hard-won practical knowledge, and open up opportunities for the full and enthusiastic involvement of local populations in our endeavour.

The 18th Commonwealth Forestry Conference provides a unique chance to address these challenges and ways to fulfil the Commonwealth's commitment to contribute to global efforts on climate change.'