CITEA seeks closer cooperation with communications commissioner on cybersecurity and AI

Nicosia, Cyprus. The Cyprus Information Technology Enterprises Association (CITEA) is seeking stronger collaboration with the Office of the Commissioner of Electronic Communications on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. A meeting examined potential joint projects, specialist training and ways to connect public bodies more closely with technology companies.

Cooperation and regulatory proposals

Electronic Communications Commissioner Marios Pieris met a CITEA delegation, with Assistant Commissioner Georgios Georgiou also attending. The association was represented by president George Malekkos, vice-president Antonia Michael, board member Nikos Kaisis and director Matina Zisiadou.

Participants considered how the association and the commissioner’s office could build substantive cooperation in both fields while strengthening connections between the relevant institutions and Cyprus’ technology businesses.

The discussion also covered CITEA’s proposals concerning the European Cybersecurity Act. Those proposals form part of its contribution to European-level dialogue and its work to bring attention to the sector’s business perspectives, requirements and challenges.

Training and joint projects

Participants examined possible specialist training for association members to improve awareness and capabilities relating to artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and associated regulatory changes.

They also considered joint initiatives involving relevant authorities, specialists and technology companies. Such initiatives could establish a lasting framework for sharing expertise and perspectives, recognising common challenges and drawing up proposals to tackle matters affecting the digital sector.

Malekkos highlights practical action

Malekkos emphasised the need for cooperation, saying the commissioner and the Authority had an increasingly critical role in the digital era. He said challenges involving artificial intelligence and cybersecurity called for substantive collaboration and prompt, practical action.

Assessing the meeting, Malekkos said he was particularly impressed by the new commissioner’s pragmatic approach and favourable response to the association’s proposals. He added that participants had considered concrete ideas, shared their views and identified a genuine readiness to proceed together.