04 Oct 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s efforts to spearhead global cooperation in digital defense took center stage at the Global Cybersecurity Forum held in Riyadh, as building trust via a global partnership is key, according to an official.
Speaking during a panel session at the event, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel Al-Jubeir, highlighted the Kingdom’s proactive stance in building international trust in the digital space.
“There are areas where that can be used in order to build confidence, and that confidence helps us work better with each other,” Al-Jubeir said.
He added: “Because one, I understand two issues, one on the protection of children, and one on the empowerment of women. I don’t believe anyone on this globe can not appreciate and support the importance of protecting our children from evil on the Internet.”
Al-Jubeir pointed out that cybersecurity is no longer just a technical issue but a crucial factor in attracting investment.
“When investors look at countries, they look at cybersecurity. It’s become now one of the main, if not the main issue,” he said.
Al-Jubeir continued: “Would you invest in a company in which you cannot use the Internet safely? Of course not, so this is an incentive for countries to do something about enhancing and protecting their networks.”
Adding to the discussion, the former Indian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shyam Saran, underlined the urgency of keeping pace with the quick advancements in cyber technology.
“The speed of change is so rapid that states are constantly playing catch-up, both in terms of domestic laws and international agreements,” he said.
Saran added: “Because of the speed of change that is taking second here you have a technology which is, in fact, in the nature of what I would call a multiplicator. That is, it has an impact across various domains.”
He highlighted that cybersecurity impacts multiple sectors, including defense and energy, making collaboration even more essential.
Al-Jubeir stressed the complexities of cybersecurity compared to other global challenges, such as trade or environmental issues.
“With cyber, a single individual sitting in a dorm room can wreak havoc on a nation’s electricity system, banking system, or defense system,” he said.
This global nature of cyber threats, he explained, necessitates a collaborative effort among nations to develop a unified framework of laws and procedures that protect cyberspace.
This proactive approach is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to position itself as a responsible global actor, connecting continents through its strategic geographic location.
“Our policy has always been about connectivity — whether it’s data lines, sea lanes, or air traffic. We are cognizant of the responsibilities and opportunities our position offers the global community,” Al-Jubeir said.
He added: “Saudi Arabia is all about bridge building. Just look at our geographic location cases between three continents: Asia, Africa, and Europe. The more bridges we build, the more connectivity we have, whether that connectivity is shipping, whether it’s data lines, whether it’s cyber, whether it’s thought connectivity.”
Additionally, the minister underscored the comprehensive nature of the Kingdom’s approach to cybersecurity, which aligns closely with its Vision 2030 initiative.
This sweeping reform plan aims to diversify the economy and create a secure digital environment conducive to technological innovation and investment.
Al-Jubeir highlighted how the digital age has transformed global job creation and industries, making it easier for countries to benefit from outsourcing through cyber technologies.
“In the past, nations hosted call centers which created jobs and spin-off industries,” he said, adding that today’s technologies, such as 3D printing, enable production across borders, creating even more opportunities. However, he warned that these advantages will only be realized by countries that establish a solid legal framework and secure their networks from vulnerabilities.
Al-Jubeir pointed to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 as a prime example of a comprehensive reform initiative that integrates economic and social development with a focus on cybersecurity.
“What we have done in Saudi Arabia when you look at Vision 2030 is very comprehensive,” he said. The minister emphasized the importance of ensuring every aspect of society is connected and protected from cyber threats, stressing that even a single weakness in the system could lead to widespread disruption.
Reflecting on the need for agility in the digital economy, Al-Jubeir urged nations to be quick and adaptable to maintain their competitive edge.
“If you’re not quick on your feet and comprehensive, you’re going to lose, and you are going to forfeit opportunities,” he said.
Al-Jubeir also emphasized the importance of global collaboration in cybersecurity, advocating for shared baselines and codes of conduct that will help create a secure international framework.
He added: “Very optimistic that we can get there, but the key is to get globally everyone to think in terms of baselines.”