I follow the news with sadness and dismay. The unprovoked attack from Russia on Ukraine is a great tragedy unfolding before our eyes.
The worst affected in this war is the civilian population in Ukraine - many have lost their lives and hundreds of thousands have been forced to flee their homes.
In addition to human suffering, the economic damage will be great. Already today, global financial markets and energy prices are negatively affected. Our members operate in a global market. A sharply weakened world economy will have severe consequences for the entire European industry.
At the same time, it is comforting that Europe stands united in solidarity with Ukraine. The strong European unity that we have witnessed in the last few days shows us what an important role the EU can play.
Viveka Beckeman
Director General for the Swedish Forest Industries Federation