Foreign Minister’s Foreword Foreign Minister’s Foreword We live in the most interconnected era in human history. Instantaneous communications, transactions, and access to information keep our economies growing, infrastructure operating, governments working and people in touch. Technology will continue to fundamentally change the way we live, work and relate to one another. The borderless nature of cyberspace means international cyber issues present opportunities and challenges for all Australians, every day. Digital trade, cyber-enabled intellectual property theft, technology for development and operations to influence elections are some of the ways cyber affairs permeate our international conversations. The 2016 Cyber Security Strategy committed to expanding on how Australia will attain global responsibility and influence in cyberspace. Now, more than ever, we must engage with the international community as exciting possibilities emerge, critical debates unfold and global rules are agreed. Australia’s first International Cyber Engagement Strategy states Australia’s comprehensive international cyber affairs agenda. It sets a clear vision of Australia’s interests and objectives in cyberspace over the next three years. Reflecting Australia’s broad view of cyber affairs, this Strategy establishes a whole-of-Government approach across seven key themes: Digital Trade, Cyber Security, Cybercrime, International Security, Internet Governance & Cooperation, Human Rights & Democracy Online and Technology for Development. The Strategy is supported by a practical action plan. The Foreign Policy White Paper, currently under development, will reiterate our understanding of the significant and growing importance of cyber issues to Australia’s foreign policy. It will also chart a course to position Australia for opportunity, while managing the risks of our increasingly interconnected world. Our international cyber engagement protects Australians and promotes our interests. It positions us to harness opportunities and increase our cyber resilience. An open, free and secure Internet drives economic growth, enhances our national security and fosters international stability. 5