1. Country relationship management
Simon Eggleston

2. GFOI Country Links
GFOI is aiming at practical support to countries implementing REDD+/National Forest Monitoring Systems / MRV Systems
Therefore we need to link to those in countries directly involved in these activities
SDCG wishes to confirm points of contact and verify relevance for GFOI and Confirm next steps with each country
Our donors would like
to see confirmation that countries will implement these systems – e.g. involvement in UNREDD, FCPF etc.
to see some commitment to using data and support provided by GFOI for these activities
existing FCT National Demonstrator countries can continue their involvement
This does imply commitment at a high level

3. GFOI
Developing REDD+/National Forest Monitoring Systems / MRV Systems is a country led process
Systems must meet individual country needs, requirements and circumstances: there is no single solution
Systems must also be compliant with UNFCCC decisions and IPCC Guidelines
GFOI will support complement exiting support from FAO, World Bank etc. We are not an alternative to them but are providing support around the provision and use of earth observation data.

4. Need Assessments Assessments of country needs are a crucial step
Will depend on a countries existing capabilities and resources. Countries may have experience of using remotely sensed data and developing systems: some countries do not.
Needs go beyond data and include capacity development and R&D.
GFOI’s methods and Guidance is being reviewed now. It outlines minimum data and system requirements to meet UNFCCC decisions and IPCC guidelines and should guide GFOI

5. GFOI Country Involvement
GFOI is still developing a communication strategy including a country involvement which should include the following items:
Confirmation of commitment to achieving GFOI aims
Mutual understanding of needs
Coordination of support within GFOI and between GFOI and other organisations
Input from countries