Need to strengthen national cyber security capabilities in the face of global threats says Alvi

ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi said on Tuesday that, in light of the worldwide threat of cyber-attacks, it was critical for Pakistan to develop national cyber security capabilities to secure its critical systems and data. The president said that preparing indigenous professionals and solutions was critical to reducing the risk of cyber-attacks, particularly against the country's defence, energy, and financial infrastructures, while speaking at the opening session of the second annual International Conference on Cyber Warfare and Security.

The two-day workshop, hosted by Air University's National Centre of Cyber Security, focused on strategies to boost cyber security and counter advanced threats.

As the globe witnessed fast technological advancement, President Alvi stated that developing strong cyber security capabilities was critical for both defensive and offensive plans.

He stated that a national vision of a secure and robust digital environment would contribute to socioeconomic progress in the country.

He stated that news of government websites being hacked and sensitive material being taken by foreign entities had recently drew the attention of many developed and developing countries to cyberspace.

The president, who unveiled the National Cyber Security Academy on the occasion, praised the Pakistan Air Force's efforts to become an effective, ubiquitous, and highly responsive cyber force.

He expressed optimism that, under the supervision of the PAF and the Higher Education Commission, the academy will serve as a watershed moment in the country's quest for safe, secure, and long-term cyber security.