Global Cybersecurity Forum Fourth Edition Launched Under Custodian Of The Two Holy Mosques' Patronage

The fourth Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) commenced under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Representing him, Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz attended the event. Organised by the National Cybersecurity Authority with Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE), this year's theme is "Advancing Collective Action in Cyberspace." The forum spans two days and includes participants from 120 countries.

Upon arrival, Prince Mohammed was greeted by Eng. Majed Al-Mazyed, Governor of the National Cybersecurity Authority. In his opening remarks, Prince Mohammed highlighted key points from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's address. The Crown Prince announced the Child Protection in Cyberspace (CPC) Global Summit, a pioneering initiative aimed at unifying global efforts to protect children online.

The CPC Global Summit is a first-of-its-kind event that seeks to enhance global responses to digital threats facing children. It reflects Saudi Arabia's dedication to human welfare and prosperity. Prince Mohammed stated, "As the need for strengthened international collaboration towards a safe and reliable cyberspace becomes increasingly urgent, this forum and its expert participants give us confidence that the outcomes will meet the world's aspirations for this vital and promising sector."

Eng. Majed Al-Mazyed delivered a speech praising the profound themes in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's address. He stressed the link between cyberspace, economic growth, societal prosperity, individual security, and national stability. He also emphasized aligning international efforts to tackle cyberspace challenges through investment in human capital.

The Global Cybersecurity Forum hosted its first Global Summit on Child Protection in Cyberspace. Organised by the National Cybersecurity Authority and the Global Cybersecurity Forum Foundation, it collaborated with entities like ITU and UNICEF. This summit aligns with the Crown Prince’s initiative to raise awareness among decision-makers about digital threats to children.

The forum continues building on previous editions' foundations and objectives by bringing together high-level international officials. It aims to unify efforts across various fields related to cybersecurity through initiatives like establishing the Global Cybersecurity Forum Foundation by Royal Order in 2023.

Building International Platforms

The Kingdom has been proactive in creating internationally oriented platforms and launching pioneering global initiatives across related fields. These efforts aim to open avenues of knowledge on cybersecurity topics, foster cooperation, and leverage opportunities in this sector for development and global prosperity advancement.

This edition of GCF underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to promoting collective action in cyberspace while addressing pressing issues such as child protection online. By gathering experts from around the world, it seeks solutions that align with global aspirations for a secure digital future.

With inputs from SPA