Johannesburg,
In a critical ‘Friends of BRICS’ meeting held in Johannesburg, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval issued a call for collective efforts to address the rising challenges posed by cybersecurity. Emphasizing the need for greater collaboration among nations, Doval highlighted India’s commitment to support and work closely with the Global South to overcome limitations in resources.
The meeting, attended by representatives from BRICS countries and their allied nations – Belarus, Burundi, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and Cuba – delved into the pressing issue of cybersecurity, recognizing the increased gravity of cyber risks with the advent of disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Big Data, and Internet of Things (IoT).
During the discussions, Doval brought attention to the alarming connection between cyber criminals and terrorists. He shed light on the exploitation of cyberspace for financing, money laundering, radicalizing individuals, facilitating lone wolf attacks, recruitment activities, and maintaining secure communications. The NSA further stressed that the younger population was particularly vulnerable to extremist ideologies propagated through social media platforms due to their technology proficiency and impressionable minds.
“The Global South must join hands in tackling the growing cyber threats that transcend geographical boundaries. India is committed to taking a leading role in this collective endeavor,” stated NSA Ajit Doval, reaffirming India’s dedication to addressing cybersecurity challenges faced by developing nations.
With the integration of AI, Big Data, and IoT in various aspects of daily life, the potential risks arising from cybersecurity breaches are poised to increase exponentially. This necessitates proactive measures and an effective framework for international cooperation in countering cyber threats.
In addition to participating in the discussions on cybersecurity, NSA Doval engaged in several bilateral meetings with his counterparts from BRICS and Friends of BRICS nations. These engagements provided an opportunity for nations to exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore possible joint initiatives to bolster their cybersecurity capabilities.
The ‘Friends of BRICS’ meeting concluded on a resolute note, with attending nations pledging to enhance cooperation in the realm of cybersecurity and develop strategies to safeguard their digital landscapes. As the world grows increasingly interconnected, the urgent need for a unified approach to combat cyber threats has become evident, and the commitment demonstrated during this meeting is a step towards a safer and more secure global digital ecosystem.
