Global Cybersecurity Forum Begins In Riyadh Under King Salman’s Patronage To Enhance International Cooperation

The fourth annual Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) is set to commence in Riyadh, under the auspices of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Organised by the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA), this year's forum is themed "Advancing Collective Action in Cyberspace." It aims to foster international collaboration on critical cybersecurity issues.

The GCF will take place over two days, from October 2-3, and will gather a diverse group of decision-makers, thought leaders, and chief executives from more than 120 countries. Participants include representatives from government, academia, and leading global companies. The forum will feature high-level speakers discussing various aspects of cybersecurity.

A significant highlight of this year's GCF is the inaugural Child Protection in Cyberspace (CPC) Global Summit. This summit is organised by the NCA and the GCF Foundation in partnership with the UN International Telecommunication Union (ITU), UNICEF, and other stakeholders from private sectors and non-profit organisations worldwide. The CPC Global Summit aligns with His Royal Highness the Crown Prince's initiative to protect children online by increasing awareness among decision-makers about digital threats facing children.

The GCF will host several panel discussions addressing key themes such as overcoming cyber disparities by building trust for enhanced international cooperation. Other topics include promoting inclusion through cyber behaviour and social fabric in cyberspace, making cyberspace a catalyst for development, and bridging social gaps among communities and countries.

Another focus area at the GCF is exploring new cyber horizons. Discussions will delve into leveraging emerging technologies to drive progress and innovation within cyberspace. Additionally, there will be talks on how the thriving cyber economy contributes to development by advancing markets in this vital sector.

The GCF serves as a global platform bringing together decision-makers, government representatives, companies, cybersecurity leaders, academia, and non-governmental organisations. It operates in line with strategic objectives set by the GCF Foundation to enhance international cybersecurity efforts while supporting economic and social development initiatives globally.

This year's forum continues to build on foundations laid by previous editions. It aims to bring together high-level international officials to discuss pressing cybersecurity challenges and opportunities for collaboration across various sectors worldwide.

With inputs from SPA