#Cybersecuritypartnership

[thxnews]

UK and Australia Unite for Online Safety

Charting New Territories in Digital Safety

In an era dominated by digital innovation and interconnectedness, the imperative for robust online safety and security measures is more pronounced than ever. Recognizing this critical need, the United Kingdom and Australia have taken a significant step forward by co-signing a historic Online Safety and Security Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This landmark agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter in bilateral cooperation between these two nations, with the aim of creating a safer and more secure online environment for their citizens.  

A Pioneering Partnership

Amplifying World-Class Regulatory Regimes The MoU represents the first arrangement of its kind, with a broad focus on a wide array of digital safety and security issues, ranging from illegal content and child safety to technology-facilitated gender-based violence. It pledges to amplify the already world-class regulatory regimes of both countries, such as the UK’s Online Safety Act 2023 and Australia’s Online Safety Act 2021. These acts are instrumental in striving to make the UK and Australia the safest places in the world to navigate the online sphere.   Deepening Cooperation Across Key Pillars The agreement sets the stage for deeper cooperation across several critical pillars, including enhanced collaboration on online safety and security. Both governments have committed to closer cooperation through various means, such as in-person dialogues, coordinated bilateral and multilateral engagement, regulatory engagement, shared research projects, and working with the industry to tackle safety challenges posed by design choices. This multifaceted approach aims to address the complexities of online safety and create effective strategies to combat digital harms.  

Leading the International Agenda

By joining forces, the UK and Australia position themselves as leaders on the international stage, shaping a global consensus on tackling online harms. This partnership not only allows for the sharing of best practices and resources but also fosters innovation in the development of new safety measures and technologies.   A Shared Commitment to Online Well-being Both countries have a long-standing commitment to upholding human rights, fundamental freedoms, democracy, and the rule of law, both online and offline. The MoU enshrines this shared commitment, pledging to safeguard the online well-being of their citizens without stifling innovation essential for economic, social, and individual progress.  

Looking Ahead for a Safer Digital Future

The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, the Rt Hon Michelle Donelan MP, and the Australian Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, have both expressed their pride and optimism for this partnership. They emphasize the importance of proactive measures to ensure legislative frameworks remain fit for purpose and evolve alongside emerging online harms. As the digital landscape undergoes rapid change, the collaboration between the UK and Australia underscores the global responsibility to protect online users. Through joint efforts, these nations aim to create a safer digital experience for all, thereby setting a precedent for international cooperation in the realm of online safety and security.   Conclusion The UK-Australia online safety MoU is more than just an agreement; it's a beacon of hope for a safer, more secure digital world. As we move forward, the collaborative efforts of these two nations will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of online safety, ensuring a digital environment where innovation thrives alongside robust protection for all users.   Sources: THX News, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology & The Rt Hon Michelle Donelan MP. Read the full article

[thxnews]

Philippine Delegation Explores Tech Cooperation at London Tech Week

  Last week, a delegation from the Philippines participated in the 10th annual London Tech Week (LTW), Europe's largest tech festival. The event, held from June 12th to 16th, brought together more than 20,000 government and corporate leaders, visionary startup founders, senior investors, and emerging tech talents from around the world. The discussions centered around harnessing the power of technology for societal advancement.  

Delegation from the Philippines attended the 10th year of London Tech Week. Photo by British Embassy Manila.  

Diverse Philippine Delegation Attends LTW

The Philippine delegation to London Tech Week included the following prominent figures and executives: Key: Organizations/Companies | Delegates GCash | Martha Sazon (President and CEO), Pebbles Sy (Chief Technology and Operations Officer), Sara Venturina (Chief Data Officer) Kickstart Ventures | Minette Navarrete (President and Co-founder), Mike Maté (VP Investments) Digital Pilipinas | Amor Maclang QBO | Katrina Chan (Executive Director) Paymongo | Jojo Malolos (President and CEO) mWell by Metro Pacific | Chaye Cabal-Revilla (CEO) RCBC | Lito Villanueva (EVP and Chief Innovations and Inclusion Officer)  

Strengthening UK-Philippine Tech Cooperation

The discussions held throughout the week centered on deepening cooperation between the UK and the Philippines in the fields of fintech, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The participants explored market potential and opportunities for British companies to enter and expand in the Philippines.  

Showcasing Philippine Tech Innovations

At LTW's Transformation Stage, Pebbles Sy of GCash highlighted the recent launch of GCash in the UK, discussing the future of payment innovation and the open banking industry. Minette Navarrete of Kickstart Ventures had the privilege of joining the Global Leaders Innovation Summit, where she shed light on the transformative power of technology in inspiring change and innovation.  

Networking with UK Officials

The Philippine delegation had the opportunity to engage with senior UK officials during their visit. They attended a business leaders' garden reception at 10 Downing Street, hosted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and a LTW reception at Banqueting House, hosted by Secretary of State for Business and Trade Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch MP. These gatherings aimed to celebrate the thriving UK tech sector while fostering valuable connections.  

Enhancing Cybersecurity Measures

Additionally, the delegation met with the UK's Cybersecurity Ambassador, Juliette Wilcox CMG, to discuss equipping companies with robust cybersecurity technologies. The conversation centered on strengthening cybersecurity measures to safeguard both UK and Philippine organizations.  

UK and Philippine partnerships in the growing tech sector. Photo by British Embassy in Manila.  

Strengthening Tech Partnerships

Highlighting the growing partnership between the UK and the Philippines in the tech sector, His Majesty's Trade Commissioner Natalie Black CMG announced Kickstart Ventures' multimillion-dollar investment in Roslin Technologies. This collaboration aims to position Kickstart Ventures as a leading provider of animal cell lines to the global cultivated meat industry. The investment demonstrates the UK's world-class tech sector, valued at $1 trillion and ranked third globally, following the United States and China. The partnership holds the potential to drive breakthroughs and contribute to future food security efforts. The Philippine delegation's participation in London Tech Week exemplifies the commitment to foster international collaboration and exchange of ideas in the pursuit of technological advancements. The discussions and networking opportunities provided a platform for both countries to explore avenues for growth and innovation in various tech sectors.   Sources: THX News & British Embassy Manila. Read the full article