Skopje, 1 November 2024 (MIA) - About sixty representatives of public institutions, experts and civil society officials are taking part Friday in a public debate on the adoption of the 2024-2026 National Cyber Security Strategy, announced Minister for Digital Transformation Stefan Andonovski.

Speaking at a news conference, he called the strategy a strategic document and a comprehensive framework for action providing coordinated national response to modern cyber threats and contributing to safer digital future in the country

“This strategy is the cornerstone of our efforts to create a safe and reliable digital space in the Republic of Macedonia. It is part of the requirements of the EU noted in this year’s report and the requirements by our international NATO partners. But, it is also key in securing online safety of the citizens and the institutions,” said Andonovski. 

The strategy, he added, has five pillars – the first pillar involves the creation of strong national cyber security capacities, including the new cyber security sector as part of the Ministry for Digital Transformation. 

“This sector will be the starting point for building cyber security policies and standards all the while acting as the single contact and coordination point for all cyber security-related activities,” explained the Minister. 

The second pillar involves resilience and security of critical infrastructure, “from the energy sector to financial institutions, from the health system to transport network.”

The third pillar focuses on building a society that is resilient to cyber-attacks by educating adult people and protecting young ones, as well as by training public sector employees and offering educational programs for the public sector. 

The fourth pillar will make sure the impact of incidents is minimized since, as Andonovski said, every 11 seconds some organization in the world is under cyber-attacks. He stressed that the prime focus will be on fighting cybercrime.

The fifth and final pillar of the strategy is dedicated to improving international cooperation in cyber-security and cyber-diplomacy.

To make sure the strategy is successfully implemented, the Ministry for Digital Transformation will be tasked with conducting most activities, 76 tasks. Other institutions involved include the ministries of the interior, foreign affairs and defense as well as the Army. 

MIA file photo

Video: government