The 3rd NATO Cyber Defence Conference is taking place in Tirana on October 9–10, 2025, bringing together senior political, military, and industry representatives from 32 Allied and partner nations to discuss strengthening collective resilience and cooperation in the cyber domain.
In his opening remarks, the Director General of the National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK), Mr. Igli Tafa, emphasized that cybersecurity has become one of the defining challenges of the modern era — a pillar of national sovereignty and collective defence within the Alliance.
“Cybersecurity has become one of the defining challenges of our time. It is not merely a technical concern but a cornerstone of national sovereignty, shared responsibility, and democratic stability,” stated Mr. Tafa.
“In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that cyber defence is no longer an addition to national security — it is its very foundation.”
In a video message, NATO Secretary General Mr. Mark Rutte underscored that cyber defence is a vital component of the Alliance’s collective security, stressing that no country can confront today’s digital-era challenges alone.
“Every day, state and non-state actors operate in cyberspace against us, seeking to undermine our defences, damage critical infrastructure, spy on our societies, and disrupt government services,” said Mr. Rutte.
“No one stands alone in NATO — we stand united in this digital age, facing those who seek to harm us.”
Prime Minister Edi Rama shared Albania’s experience in countering cyberattacks and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the nation’s digital infrastructure with the most advanced security standards.
“Today, we face a cyberattack every three minutes, yet we successfully repel them all. Albania has built one of the strongest cyber defence walls among NATO countries,” said Prime Minister Rama.
The 2025 NATO Cyber Defence Conference is being held for the first time in Albania under the auspices of the National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK), serving as a strategic platform for sharing expertise among Allies and advancing joint policies in protecting the digital domain.
Throughout its two days, the conference addresses topics including strategic investments, resilience-building, public-private cooperation, and NATO’s role in setting international cybersecurity standards.
