Participants and experts at the annual Cybersecurity Meeting 2025, held alongside the Global Future Councils events, highlighted the strategic importance of cybersecurity and the need for reinforcing international cooperation and partnerships between governmental and private sectors. They discussed the necessity of governance, legislation, and technological innovation to create a more secure and resilient cyberspace in light of global challenges.
This was addressed during a session titled “The New Cyber Order: Cooperation Amidst Disruption,” which featured Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, head of the Cybersecurity Council for the UAE government, along with Jeremy Jurgens, the Managing Director of the World Economic Forum.
Also in attendance were Rachel Elyohus, Director General of the Royal United Services Institute in the UK, and Helmut Reisinger, CEO of Palo Alto Networks for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The session was moderated by Ravi Agrawal, Editor of Foreign Policy magazine.
A Vital Element
Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti stated, “The UAE recognizes the critical role of cybersecurity in building a secure and sustainable digital future. The country is committed to optimizing its advanced tools and smart investments to enhance its cybersecurity readiness, securing its position on a global scale.
Ranked third worldwide in artificial intelligence, the UAE is leading an exceptional model for adopting strategic transformations and establishing itself as a regional and global digital innovation force.”
He further noted that amidst rapid technological advancements and changing geopolitical landscapes, the UAE continues to adopt a flexible, interdisciplinary approach, aimed at leveraging extensive opportunities available in this intelligent era, improving resource management, and boosting productivity through a swift transition to an innovation-based knowledge economy.
He mentioned the ongoing advanced phase of cyber warfare, where digital attacks pose a growing threat surpassing many traditional conflicts. Over recent years, the UAE has closely monitored the cybersecurity landscape, effectively handling numerous challenges and attacks due to its vigilant security measures and sophisticated analytical and response strategies.
The UAE has achieved significant accomplishments by utilizing its advanced analytical capabilities and establishing a comprehensive partnership ecosystem between public and private sectors.
Additionally, by collaborating with international partners, the UAE has enacted impactful judicial measures, signed multilateral agreements, and successfully dismantled fraud networks. These efforts reflect its leadership in creating a secure digital environment that fosters trust and contributes to sustainable development.
New Technology
Jeremy Jurgens remarked, “We are living in an era of new global technology systems, where advancements in cybersecurity are no longer confined to information technology alone, but result from the integration of multiple efforts.
We have gathered over 600 experts, scholars, and cybersecurity specialists to merge intellectual and technological knowledge, and we are currently developing innovative defensive mechanisms stemming from this unique collaboration.”
Rachel Elyohus explained that while the world faces cyber warfare, there is no clear battlefield. She stated, “We are in a constant state of change and disruption, with government cyber targets directly impacting various sectors. This necessitates more coordinated and effective efforts from governments to comprehend the magnitude of the current security challenges.”
She emphasized the need for empowering institutions through clear legislation that helps map out responses to these threats, stressing that isolation and creating individual regulations are no longer viable options. She urged enhanced cooperation at all levels, whether between nations or within their institutions, as well as between public and private sectors, to foster a more secure and stable global cyberspace.
Helmut Reisinger highlighted the noticeable increase in cyberattacks since 2023, noting that artificial intelligence has accelerated this trend. He added, “Adhering to legal frameworks is crucial, as they vary from country to country based on their goals. Nations lacking robust legal frameworks are more susceptible to risks in this area.”
The session concluded with participants stressing the need to formulate laws that address cyberattacks.
Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti
The UAE is setting a remarkable example in embracing strategic transformations.
Jeremy Jurgens
Advancements in cybersecurity are the result of integrated efforts.
Rachel Elyohus
The world is experiencing cyber wars without a clear battlefield.
Helmut Reisinger
Artificial intelligence has contributed to the acceleration of cyberattacks.