Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon, Minister of State for the Commonwealth and the UN at the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, has underscored the UK government’s commitment to ensure a “free, open, peaceful and secure internet” whilst attending a number of cybersecurity events in India
Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon, Minister of State for the Commonwealth and the UN at the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, has underscored the UK government’s commitment to ensure a “free, open, peaceful and secure internet” whilst attending a number of cybersecurity events in India.
In a speech at the Global Conference on Cyberspace (GCCS) on November 20-21, 2017, Lord Ahmad acknowledged the role of India and the UK in supporting the creation of new technologies to incite economic growth and financial inclusion, as well as ensuring greater security for online users.
He announced the development of a ‘Framework for the UK-India Cyber Relationship’, which clarifies the two Commonwealth countries’ commitment to increasing the social and economic benefits of a free and safe cyberspace.
The conference was attended by representatives from academia, industry, civil society and government to discuss the theme `Cyber4All: A Safe, Secure and Inclusive Cyberspace for Sustainable Development’.
Lord Ahmad also hosted a reception with Commonwealth Ministers to discuss cyber security ahead of the Commonwealth Summit in April 2018, which will host internationally-attended forums on the subject.
Furthermore, he attended a round-table of Chevening alumni who participated in the UK government’s flagship fellowship scheme on cyber security.
The scheme provides applicants with a greater understanding of the contemporary opportunities and challenges of the role of science and technology in regards to global integration.
Participants research and present a public policy plan on topics such as climate change, the internet, technological interconnectedness, and cyber security.
The Foreign Minister said: “India and the UK are leading the world in harnessing new technologies to stimulate economic growth and financial inclusion.
“The conference brings together actors from across industry, academia, civil society and governments who all have an important part to play in maintaining a free, open, peaceful and secure internet.
“I am looking forward to meeting with my counterparts to discuss how we ensure the Commonwealth is delivering a more secure future for all our citizens.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: “Emerging digital technologies could impact our future in ways that we cannot yet foresee.
“Important questions of transparency, privacy, trust and security may need to be addressed.
“Digital technology serves to empower mankind.
“We must ensure that it continues to stay that way.”
