Australia-India Pact for Cyber Technologies

Australia-India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies, and Supply Chains (PACTS)

Overview

• PACTS is a strategic partnership established between Australia and India, focusing on collaboration in cyber security, critical technologies, and supply chains.
• The partnership builds on a framework established in 2020, aiming for sustained cooperation over the next two decades.

Objectives

• Enhance national and regional security.
• Provide greater digital options to partners.
• Optimize critical supply chains.
• Strengthen the global cyber landscape.

Key Pillars of Cooperation

1. Supply Chain Resilience and Diversification

   • Develop secure and reliable supply chains to support growing tech industries.
   • Strengthen bilateral technology trade and regulatory frameworks.
   • Promote collaboration in semiconductor supply chain security and critical mineral supply chains.

2. Critical Technologies

   • Collaborate on prioritizing critical technologies such as AI, space technologies, telecommunications, biotechnology, and advanced materials.
   • Accelerate innovation and shape international standards for long-term economic security in the Indo-Pacific region.

3. Cyber Security

   • Joint efforts to combat cybercrime and malicious cyber activities.
   • Establish a bilateral mechanism for policy coherence and capacity building in the cyber domain.
   • Facilitate knowledge sharing on cyber security standards.

4. Digital Resilience

   • Provide scalable technology solutions to support the digitization of economies in the Indo-Pacific region.
   • Expand affordable digital public infrastructure solutions in various sectors including renewable energy, health, and education.

5. Defense Research Collaboration

   • Leverage defense research partnerships to address multi-domain challenges.
   • Strengthen institutional ties between Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group and India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Governance Structure

• Co-chaired by senior officials from Australia’s International and Security Group and India’s National Security Advisor’s Office.
• Annual meetings to coordinate efforts across all pillars, review progress, and assess emerging risks in cyber and critical technologies.

International Context

• The partnership aims to contribute to the shaping of global standards and values while enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Aligns with broader international security and economic strategies, promoting democratic values and responsible technology use.

Economic and Technological Impact

• The collaboration is expected to stimulate economic growth through enhanced trade and investment in technology sectors, contributing to job creation and innovation.
• Focus on developing joint projects that can yield mutual benefits in research and technology, addressing regional challenges effectively.

Conclusion

• PACTS represents a significant commitment from both Australia and India to work collaboratively in critical areas that impact national security and economic prosperity, fostering a resilient and secure digital future.