PIF Secretary General Henry Puna: PIF
THE Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Henry Puna encouraged leaders and stakeholders from across the Blue Pacific Continent to confront the growing menace of cybercrime.
Secretary General Henry Puna speaking at the Parliamentarians for Global Action Regional Pacific Islands Workshop on the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime this week in Fiji emphasized the urgent need for collective action in safeguarding the region’s digital landscape.
“As guardians of peace and prosperity in the Pacific, we cannot afford to ignore the escalating threat of cybercrime, our response must be swift, united, and decisive.” SG Puna said.
Reaffirming the Forum’s commitment to its 2050 Strategy, SG Puna underscored the pivotal role of cybersecurity within the thematic areas of Peace and Security, and Technology and Connectivity.
“Cybersecurity is not merely a technical issue—it’s a fundamental pillar of our collective security and prosperity,”
“We must fortify our cyber defenses to protect the livelihoods and aspirations of Pacific peoples.” Puna said.
Central to the Secretary General’s address was the imperative for Forum Members to accede to the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime—a landmark international agreement aimed at harmonizing legal frameworks and enhancing cross-border cooperation in combating cyber threats.
“The Budapest Convention is our blueprint for resilience against cyber threats,” said the Secretary General.
“By aligning with this global standard, we strengthen our ability to detect, deter, and prosecute cybercriminals.”
Drawing inspiration from Tonga and Australia’s recent accession to the Convention, the Secretary General urged all Forum Members to follow suit and join the collective effort to fortify the region’s cyber defenses.
“Through shared experiences and mutual support, we can build a formidable barrier against cyber threats.
“The path to a secure cyber domain is one we must tread together,” urged the Secretary General.
Secretary General also emphasized the transformative impact of Budapest Convention accession, citing Tonga’s strides in aligning its laws with global best practices and fostering international cooperation.
“Let us seize this opportunity to bolster our cyber resilience and uphold the rule of law in the digital realm.
“Together, we can turn the tide against cybercrime and secure a brighter future for the Blue Pacific Continent.” Puna adds.
