On the occasion of Safer Internet Day, the National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA), in cooperation with the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and with Tirana’s chairmanship of the South East European Cooperation Process (SEECP), organized a regional meeting on cybersecurity. This event brought together representatives from 13 SEECP participating countries and international organizations, focusing on cyber challenges and strengthening cooperation for a safer digital space.
The Director of NCSA, Mr. Igli Tafa, emphasized that cybersecurity is no longer an issue that can be addressed individually by each country, but a challenge that requires close coordination and continuous cooperation. He noted that attacks on one country can have ripple effects on the entire regional digital ecosystem. “For this reason, sharing information on threats, establishing joint mechanisms and investing in cybersecurity is no longer an option, but a necessity,” he said.
Ms. Antonela Dhimolea, National Coordinator for SEECP, emphasized the harmonization of cybersecurity policies with those of the EU and NATO as a key step in addressing hybrid threats and strengthening digital resilience.
Deputy Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Mr. Arslan Umut Ergezer, underlined the importance of regional cooperation and sharing experiences to improve digital security and increase citizens’ trust in public institutions. “Threats are real, but so are the solutions. By strengthening cooperation and knowledge sharing, we can build a more secure and resilient region,” he said.
During the roundtable discussion, participants shared experiences and strategies on building defense capacities, exchanging information on threats, and strengthening partnerships between state 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 participating countries into the European and international security framework.
