Strategic objectives and measures Actively shaping effective European cyber security policy Security is a cornerstone of the digital single market. Germany will work to make sure that IT security is sufficiently taken into account in all digitalization processes, for example by means of a European data location policy based on data security and of European rules for international data exchange which pay attention to data protection. Germany will participate in EU pilot projects addressing the legal and technical issues related to the cross-border processing and use of data. Key elements include the cross-border application of electronic identification, qualified electronic signatures, digital stamps for businesses and government agencies and other electronic trust services. Germany will also strive to make the Common Foreign and Security Policy pay greater attention to cyber security. Further, the Federal Government will help the German IT security research community form networks at European level and position itself in EU measures in order to take an active role in forming the European research landscape and research programmes. Further developing NATO’s cyber defence policy As a cornerstone of German and Euro-Atlantic security, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization depends on sufficient protection against attacks from cyberspace in order to fulfil its core tasks, especially in the area of collective defence and in the framework of international stabilization missions. In adapting to the changing security environment, the Alliance must also continue to develop its cyber defence policy. Germany will actively participate in this process. The aim is to steadily improve the resilience of Allies and of the Alliance as a whole, and to increase their deterrence and defence capabilities, not least in the context of hybrid threats. NATO has recognized cyberspace as a domain of operations, reflecting the increased importance of cyber defence policy. Shaping international cyber security In the international community, access to and use of digital technologies varies greatly between countries and regions. The relevant forums pursue sometimes 30