Strengthening Transatlantic Cyber Resilience
WASHINGTON – The United States and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cybersecurity measures through a renewed joint statement by U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas and European Commissioner for Internal Market Thierry Breton.
A Year of Productive Collaboration
Celebrating One-Year Milestone
The joint statement commemorates the first anniversary of the 2023 Joint Statement, celebrating the effective partnership between the United States and the European Union in the arena of cyber resilience.
Reflecting on the past year, significant strides have been made, including collaborations between the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (DG CONNECT) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These efforts have focused on harmonizing cyber incident reporting, enhancing cybersecurity agency cooperation, and fostering expert exchanges in cyber policy.
Expanded Cooperation Objectives
Harmonizing Cybersecurity Measures
A primary focus is on aligning cybersecurity requirements and guidelines to minimize the compliance burden on businesses. This includes a joint analysis of cyber incident reporting frameworks, aiming to identify commonalities and differences.
Advancing AI Security
Acknowledging the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, both parties have committed to integrating AI securely into critical infrastructure. This includes joint efforts in situational awareness of AI cybersecurity and collaborative approaches to AI security.
The U.S. and EU will work closely to improve collective responses to cyber incidents, including scenario-based discussions to examine crisis response mechanisms.
Enhancing Software and Hardware Security
Joint initiatives will focus on advancing the cybersecurity of software and hardware. This involves regular exchanges on open-source security, Software Bills of Materials (SBOM), and Secure-by-Design frameworks.
The collaboration extends to emerging and disruptive technologies, including discussions on Post Quantum Cryptography, to prepare for future threats.
Personnel and Talent Exchange Programs
Continuing the EU-U.S. Cyber Fellowship
The 2024 EU-U.S. Cyber Fellowship program will continue, bringing together cybersecurity officials from both regions for in-depth discussions on cyber policy issues.
Building on the fellowship’s success, a new exchange program is planned, where experts from each side will join the other’s team, fostering deeper understanding and cooperation.
Towards a Secure Cyberspace
As Secretary Mayorkas and Commissioner Breton conclude their joint statement, the emphasis is on a united front against evolving cyber threats. This collaboration symbolizes a strong transatlantic partnership committed to safeguarding cyberspace and protecting global digital infrastructure.
Sources: THX News & US Department of Homeland Security.
