Jul 13, 2010. /Lesprom Network/. FSC International and national FSC Working Groups are signing a cooperation agreement that marks the establishment of the first FSC National Offices (NOs). The agreement consolidates the relationship between FSC International and its national representations by deepening cooperation and making the NOs the formal ambassadors for FSC in their respective countries, FSC said in a statement received by Lesprom Network. FSC Working Groups that have signed the cooperation agreement are now FSC National Offices. The agreement expands and clearly defines activities and responsibilities of NOs ranging from developing national forest management standards to participating in public policy development processes and ensuring stakeholder engagement and support. Acting as ambassadors for FSC in their countries, FSC NOs play an important role in promoting FSC by raising awareness about FSC certification, providing information in the local language and participating in local events related to forestry and forest products. NOs also support the engagement of the private sector in FSC and promote participation in the FSC Membership Program. FSC Germany became the first FSC NO on 16 June 2010. The signing ceremony took place in Essen, Germany during FSC Germany’s General Assembly.