NZ-UK joint statement on cyber security
beehive.govt.nz/release/nz-uk-joint-statement-cyber-security
16 January 2013
Murray McCully
Foreign Affairs
Overview
1. Cyberspace is one of the greatest national, global and strategic challenges of our time.
Cyber intrusions are an increasing challenge for the security of systems and networks of
national importance. New Zealand and the United Kingdom are already working closely
together to confront the growing threats we face to our cyber security, and it is vital to our
wider, shared economic, security and defence interests that we do so. We are clear that
our success in this sphere will be fundamental to our joint realisation of the
transformational opportunities that Cyberspace offers.
2. New Zealand and the United Kingdom share a common position on the core principles
of liberty, transparency, freedom of expression and the rule of law in cyberspace. Through
our respective National Cyber Security strategies we have each set out our responsibility
to protect our core Government systems, systems supporting our critical national
infrastructure, and the need to work with industry and business as key partners in
establishing a safe digital environment for all.
Policy Coordination
3. New Zealand and the United Kingdom have a long history of cooperation on policy,
defence and security based on our shared values and principles. Policy in cyberspace is
complex and requires coherence across government and collaboration with close allies
and the wider community. Responding to the most challenging threats will require
difficult policy choices.
4. We will work jointly, and with our allies, to further develop a vision for the future
security of cyberspace and will work together to advance this through positive
international engagement.
International Engagement
5. We do not underestimate the challenges ahead in working with the international
community to achieve consensus on how to protect the cyberspace and, within that, the
internet which has been an unprecedented engine for growth, social progress and
innovation across the globe and in all areas of human endeavour.
6. New Zealand and the United Kingdom will work closely together in relevant
international fora to advance common understanding on the importance of an open,
dynamic Internet underpinned by the body of applicable existing international law.
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