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Vietnam underscored its commitment to enhancing both domestic and international cyber resilience, urging the UN Security Council (UNSC) to focus more on cyberspace-related challenges and cybersecurity aspects critical for maintaining international peace and security. This call to action emphasises the need for global collaboration in preventing conflicts, combating terrorism, and safeguarding essential infrastructure.
Addressing the high-level debate on “Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Addressing Evolving Threats in Cyberspace”, held by the UNSC in New York, Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN, highlighted the growing threats in cyberspace.
He noted that these threats are increasing in both scale and complexity, posing significant risks of escalating geopolitical tensions and directly threatening all countries, particularly developing nations with limited cybersecurity capacities.
Ambassador Giang stressed that addressing these cyber threats requires multi-dimensional approaches and uniform solutions. He stressed the pivotal role of the UN in strengthening and refining international frameworks through initiatives such as the Global Digital Compact and the Convention on Cyber Crime. Additionally, he advocated for enhanced cooperation to boost cyber defence capabilities and reduce the technological gap among nations.
Vietnam has taken proactive measures to address cybersecurity threats domestically with the adoption of the Law on Cyber Security in 2018. This legislation represents a comprehensive approach to tackling cyber threats within the country.
On the international stage, Vietnam supports and actively participates in global cooperation on cybersecurity, adhering to principles of respect for national independence and sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and shared responsibility in promoting responsible behaviour in cyberspace. Ambassador Giang reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to these principles while participating in international efforts to enhance cybersecurity.
Vietnam’s proactive stance and collaborative approach underscore its dedication to fostering a secure and resilient cyberspace, both domestically and internationally, ensuring the protection and stability of digital infrastructures worldwide.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s recent directive highlights Vietnam’s increasing concerns over cybersecurity threats. With cyber-attacks becoming more frequent across various sectors including government, businesses, and critical infrastructure, the directive highlights the urgent need to enhance network security measures.
It calls upon ministries, agencies, and local authorities to prioritise cybersecurity as a national imperative. Key measures include allocating at least 10% of IT project funds towards cybersecurity, conducting thorough system reviews, and reporting findings by April 2024.
Recent incidents, such as a surge in cyber threats and ransomware attacks, underscore the vulnerabilities in Vietnam’s digital infrastructure. The government is responding by strengthening regulations, conducting assessments, and promoting collaboration to bolster cybersecurity resilience and protect national interests.
Similarly, the 6th Vietnam Security Summit, organised by the Ministry of Information and Communications’ Authority of Information Security (AIS) and the IEC Group, highlighted AI’s dual impact on information security: enhancing system defences while also being exploited by cybercriminals. The session deliberated on AI-driven cyberattack trends and solutions, stressing the importance of vigilance and adaptability in the face of evolving threats.
It underscored the critical intersection of AI and cybersecurity, emphasising the need for a comprehensive AI policy framework to position Vietnam as a leader in AI innovation by 2030, thereby ensuring AI contributes significantly to economic and societal progress.
Vietnam’s cybersecurity sector has rapidly advanced, with local firms now meeting most of the country’s cybersecurity needs. They offer affordable solutions like firewalls and attack detection systems, gaining recognition globally. Challenges include a shortage of skilled professionals and limited investment, but collaborations are key to overcoming these hurdles.
Vietnamese firms are expanding internationally through partnerships, showcasing their capabilities and aiming to establish leadership in global cybersecurity. As Vietnam continues to innovate and invest in talent, its cybersecurity industry is set to play a significant role in shaping global cybersecurity standards.