India and New Zealand agree to 'deepen cooperation' in virtual bilateral cyber dialogue

India and New Zealand held second edition of ir bilateral cyber dialogue virtually on 16 to 17 November. During dialogue, two sides discussed latest developments on issues at “bilateral, regional and multilateral fora”, according to Ministry of External Affairs statement. Both sides during virtual meet exchanged views on ways to enhance cyber cooperation.

“ Cyber Dialogue discussed various aspects of existing bilateral cooperation in cyberspace, exchanged views on latest developments on cyber issues at bilateral, regional and multilateral fora and explored initiatives to furr deepen cyber cooperation,” MEA said in a statement.

India - New Zealand hold bilateral cyber dialogue

During meeting, both countries discussed areas of bilateral cooperation in cyberspace. Indian and New Zealand side discussed various issues of mutual interest. Furrmore, y agreed to work toger in areas of “cybersecurity, cybercrime and capacity building.” In meeting, Indian side was heed by Atul Malhari Gotsurve, Joint Secretary (Cyber Diplomacy) from Ministry of External Affairs. 

“ delegations deliberated on a wide range of topics of mutual interest and agreed to work closely with each or in areas of cybersecurity, cybercrime and capacity building,” MEA said in a statement.

delegation from New Zealand side was co-led by Dan Eaton, Director National Security Policy, Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) and Georgina Sargison, Acting Unit Manager, Emerging Security Issues, International Security and Disarmament Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tre. Moreover, officials from various departments from both sides attended cyber dialogue.

India-New Zealand discuss steps to bolster 'depth and momentum'

Earlier in May, India and New Zealand discussed steps to enhance “depth and momentum” of engagement between two countries in different areas, including cyber security, defence, security, tre, investment and counterterrorism. According to a statement by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), consultations were held in a “friendly and cordial atmosphere”. During a third Foreign Office Consultations, two countries reiterated importance of closer cooperation for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region and reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation. Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East) led Indian delegation while New Zealand-side was heed by Mark Sinclair, Deputy Secretary, Americas and Asia Group, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tre.

IMAGE: ANI