Global cooperation in tech key in polarised world: Singaporean minister

Singapore (VNA) – Global cooperation within a rules-based multilateral system is more important than ever for countries dealing with collective challenges in cyber security and the technology sector, even as the world grows more polarised in some ways, Singaporean Communications and Information Minister S.Iswaran has said.

At the ongoing Fireside Chat, the signature kick-off event for Singapore International Cyber Week (SICW) 2020 started on October 5, Iswaran likened his vision for the global cyber landscape to the existing multilateral trading system, which is governed by a set of common rules all countries abide by but also allows for closer collaboration between partners whose interests converge.

He said cyber security, which is currently carried out in the UN, is important to develop multilateral approach. However, regional partnerships also hold an important role as they allow like-minded countries to work together and start moving at a pace that is faster and in a more innovative manner than what can be achieved in a multilateral platform.

He also stressed the necessity of stronger collaboration between governments and the private sector to optimise benefits of the emerging technologies.

SICW 2020 is being held in a mostly virtual format owing to safe distancing measures and travel restrictions, and will conclude on October 9./.