In the interests of a strong and competitive forestry and timber industry, the associations of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE region) want to further expand and intensify their cooperation. Following a joint meeting in Prague on May 23, the industry representatives are calling for a strategic change of course in EU climate and environmental policy. Instead of restrictions on use, the focus should be on sustainable wood use, a resilient bioeconomy and practical framework conditions. The aim is to strengthen the European timber industry as a key player for ecological transformation and economic stability in the long term.