Baku: The 4th National Cybersecurity Forum, organized by the Azerbaijan Cybersecurity Organizations Association in partnership with the National Cybersecurity Center, was held in Baku on June 4. The forum, one of Azerbaijan's leading platforms dedicated to cybersecurity and digital resilience, convened representatives from various sectors including government agencies, parliament members, international organizations, foreign cybersecurity institutions, the private sector, higher education institutions, and experts.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the forum's agenda included discussions on the development of the cybersecurity ecosystem, international cooperation, digital transformation, the impact of artificial intelligence on security, and prospects for local innovation. An accompanying exhibition showcased advanced cybersecurity solutions presented by partner companies.
The event commenced with the National Anthem of Azerbaijan and a moment of silence for those who sacrificed their lives for the country. ACOA Executive Director Rauf Jabarov, in his opening remarks, emphasized efforts to enhance Azerbaijan's cybersecurity ecosystem through public-private cooperation, human capital development, and international partnerships. Senior government officials and parliament members highlighted the strategic importance of cybersecurity as a crucial component of national security, focusing on national cybersecurity strategies, infrastructure protection, cybercrime, and international best practices.
A significant highlight was the honorary membership certificate awarded to Corey Deng, Chief Cybersecurity and Privacy Officer for Middle East and Central Asia at Huawei Technologies, who joined the ACOA Advisory Board. A memorandum of understanding was also signed between ACOA and Huawei Technologies to bolster knowledge exchange and support joint cybersecurity initiatives.
The forum saw the launch of the CyberAward initiative to recognize contributions to Azerbaijan's cybersecurity ecosystem and included its first public Q and A session, engaging students with university and private sector representatives. Additionally, ACOA signed agreements with the Azerbaijan State University of Economics and regional partners from Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia to enhance regional collaboration and joint projects.
Experts from Kazakhstan, Trkiye, Estonia, and Azerbaijan shared insights on regional cooperation and emerging cybersecurity challenges. Sessions explored issues stemming from digital transformation, AI's impact on cyber defense, and evolving threat landscapes, with discussions on risk mitigation and AI-driven security solutions.
The forum concluded with presentations by members of the cyber diaspora, showcases of local cybersecurity innovations, and an interactive quiz competition with awards for winners. The 4th National Cybersecurity Forum reinforced cooperation among government bodies, the private sector, academia, and international partners, promoting knowledge exchange and partnerships within the cybersecurity sector. The shared ideas, agreements, and initiatives are anticipated to significantly advance Azerbaijan's cybersecurity ecosystem.