UK and Japan Enhance Cyber Partnership
In a significant step toward bolstering cyber capabilities and fostering collaboration, the UK and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC). The agreement, signed during a three-day visit to the UK by Japan’s Keidanren Cyber Security Committee and hosted by the National Cyber Advisory Board (NCAB), aims to strengthen public-private partnerships in the realm of cybersecurity.
Co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden and Chief Information Officer at Lloyds Banking Group, Sharon Barber, the NCAB was established in 2022 to unite leaders from academia and industry. With a mission to present diverse perspectives and leverage networks across the cyber ecosystem, the group plays a crucial role in supporting the delivery of the National Cyber Strategy.
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden emphasized the importance of international collaboration in cybersecurity, stating, "Cyber is the new frontier. To ensure we remain at the forefront of cyber strategy, we must continue to work with democratic partners who share our values." The Memorandum of Cooperation solidifies the UK's commitment to collaboration with Japan in areas such as rule of law, climate change, and human rights.
The Japanese delegation engaged with key figures from the public sector and industry experts during their visit. Discussions included securing digital supply chains, enhancing cyber resilience in businesses, and implementing best practices for recruiting and advancing cyber skills in both countries.
This initiative builds upon the broader collaboration between the UK and Japan, as demonstrated by the signing of the Hiroshima Accord in May 2023. The accord committed both nations to an enhanced Global Strategic Partnership, focusing on issues such as global security, resilience, and climate change.
Dr. Nobuhiro Endo, representing Japan, expressed the commitment to deepen and broaden bilateral cooperation in the public and private sectors, particularly in co-creating a data-driven society and ensuring the safe and secure use of digital technologies, including AI.
Sharon Barber, co-chair of NCAB, highlighted the importance of close collaboration between government and industry. She emphasized that the Memorandum of Cooperation is a significant step in maturing private-public partnerships on cyber for both nations, ultimately supporting the delivery of each country's cybersecurity strategy.
