Australia and New Zealand have made a new commitment to cyber security in the Pacific.
Photo: 123RF
Foreign ministers from the two countries last week announced their intention to work with Pacific countries on supporting an open, free and secure internet to drive economic growth, protect security and promote stability.
The announcement followed the signing of the Boe Declaration by Pacific Island Forum countries in September, which highlighted the need for improved cyber security in the region.
Australia's foreign minister Marise Payne underscored her government's intention with US$6.6-million in additional funding for a new cyber security centre in Papua New Guinea.
The initiative takes Australia's cyber co-operation funding to US$28-million to 2022.
New Zealand's foreign minister Winston Peters affirmed his government's commitment to building expertise and capacity in the region as part of the Pacific reset.
"New Zealand's increased, re-oriented development program recognises the emerging challenges facing the Pacific, and New Zealand is committed to helping address these through its Pacific Reset," said Mr Peters said.
"New Zealand was pleased to partner with Australia and Papua New Guinea to support cyber security capacity for APEC Leaders Week - and beyond - and we want to continue this collaborative approach across the region."