PRESS RELEASE Tirana, 11 February 2025
On Safer Internet Day and with the chairmanship of Tirana for the Southeast European Cooperation Process (SEECP), the National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK), in collaboration with the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, organized a regional meeting on cybersecurity. This event gathered representatives from 13 SEECP participants and international organizations, focusing on discussing cyber challenges and strengthening cooperation for a safer digital space.
The General Director of AKSK, Mr. Igli Tafa, emphasized that cybersecurity is no longer an issue that can be addressed individually by each state but a challenge that requires close coordination and ongoing cooperation. He noted that attacks on one economy can have a chain reaction across the entire regional digital ecosystem. "Sharing information about threats, building common mechanisms, and investing in cybersecurity is no longer an option, but a necessity," he stated.
Ms. Antonela Dhimolea, National Coordinator for SEECP, highlighted the importance of harmonizing cybersecurity policies with those of the EU and NATO as a key step to address hybrid threats and strengthen digital resilience.
Deputy Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Mr. Arslan Umut Ergezer, stressed the importance of regional cooperation and the sharing of experiences to improve digital security and increase citizen trust in public institutions. "The threats are real, but so are the solutions. By prioritizing regional cybersecurity cooperation, building trust, strengthening our defences, and sharing knowledge, we can build a safer and more resilient South East Europe Region," he said.
During the roundtable discussion, participants shared experiences and strategies on building defensive capabilities, exchanging information on threats, and strengthening partnerships between government institutions, the private sector, and academia.
The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to deepen regional cooperation and align efforts with global cybersecurity standards, supporting the integration of SEECP participants into the framework of European and international security.
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