Kuwait and the US State Department have signed a letter of intent on cybersecurity cooperation, according to a report by Kuwait News Agency (Kuna).

The deal is expected to support Kuwait’s three-year National Cybersecurity Strategy and build local capacity, according to Salem Muthib al-Athainah, chairman and CEO of Kuwait’s Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (Citra).

It is understood to cover all areas of vital information infrastructure, electronic defence systems, response to electronic emergencies and cyber-crimes, and the setting up of cybersecurity centres in Kuwait.

Kuwait’s National Cybersecurity Strategy (2017-20) aims to promote safe and proper cyberspace usage, safeguard national assets and critical infrastructure such as electricity, water and oil assets; as well as promote cooperation among local and international agencies tasked with cybersecurity operations.

Initiatives planned under the strategy include establishing a national cybersecurity centre, a security operations centre and the development of capabilities in cybercrime forensics, secure software development and network security, among others.

MEED understands Citra is implementing the strategy in close cooperation with Kuwait’s Defence, Interior and Electricity and Water ministries, as well as Kuwait’s oil companies.