First Minister Carwyn Jones is in Brittany to sign a new agreement to strengthen links between Wales and the region.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The Memorandum of Understanding reflects the importance of continuing collaboration across Europe to address global challenges, such as cyber security, in the face of the changing political landscape as the UK prepares to leave the EU.
While in Brittany, the First Minister will visit the Cyber Pole of Excellence, which focuses on training, research and supporting SMEs working in the cyber industry.
First Minister Carwyn Jones said:
“Cyber security and the prevention of cyber attacks is a global challenge and one which we can only face by working collaboratively with international partners. Cyber attacks, like last year’s WANNACRY strike, can have a wide ranging impact on national security and demonstrate the importance of working collaboratively to prevent further attacks.
“I am proud that Wales is the UK centre for cyber security and home to the Britain’s largest Cyber Security Cluster of SMEs and internationally renowned companies such as Airbus, General Dynamics, Alert Logic and CGI.
“It is crucial we remain at the cutting edge of technology. This can only achieved by continuing to collaborate with global partners and participating in European research and innovation programs.
“Leaving the EU may also create challenges for this the cyber industry and we must take steps now to ensure this important sector is able to continue to develop and thrive. Placing restrictions on EU citizens working in the cyber industry will further restrict the sector that is already affected by a shortage in skilled labour, while restricting the UK’s access to the single market and could damage the UK’s position as market leader.
“I am committed to continuing to work in partnership with our European friends and partners to face future global cyber security challenges.”