Green knowledge exchange Turkey-The Netherlands : priority issues identified for cooperation in the field of biodiversity protection and conservation

As a consequence of its geographical location Turkey is very rich in biodiversity; its flora is richest, both in terms of overall plant diversity and level of endemism compared to Europe, North Africa, or countries in the Middle East. The Netherlands has been involved in biodiversity issues in Turkey through the BBI-Matra (International Biodiversity Policy Program) activities. The main objective of the BBI-Matra Action Plan for 2005–2008 is based on the resolution: “To halt the loss of biological diversity in the pan-European region by the year 2010, by supporting and strengthening civil society organizations involved in nature themes. For the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality it is important to understand who the most important players in the ‘Green Knowledge Exchange’ arena are, what priorities they have and how The Netherlands can contribute effectively to the Turkish biodiversity agenda. This report gives an overview of important biodiversity issues in Turkey and priorities for cooperation selected by Turkish and Dutch partie