Australia–India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS)
Prelims:
International Relations, Science & Technology
Mains:
GS Paper II-International Relations, GS Paper III-Science & Technology, Internal Security
Current relevance:
India and Australia have launched the Australia–India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS), replacing the 2020 Framework Arrangement on Cyber and Cyber Enabled Critical Technology Cooperation.
At a glance:
PACTS (Australia–India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains) is a new bilateral strategic framework that strengthens cooperation in cyber security, critical technologies, resilient supply chains, digital resilience, and defence research.
It replaces the 2020 Framework Arrangement on Cyber and Cyber Enabled Critical Technology Cooperation.
Objective:
To strengthen national and regional security by building resilient supply chains, promoting trusted critical technologies, enhancing cyber security, and supporting inclusive digital transformation.
Five Pillars of Cooperation:
1.Supply Chain Resilience and Diversification
Australia and India will strengthen secure and resilient supply chains by enhancing cooperation in trusted technologies, critical minerals, semiconductors, undersea cable connectivity, bilateral trade, research, and investment.
2.Critical Technologies
Collaborate in Artificial Intelligence (AI), biotechnology, telecommunications, space technology, and advanced materials while promoting research, innovation, international standards, and secure digital infrastructure.
3.Cyber Security
strengthen cooperation in cyber security by tackling cybercrime, protecting critical infrastructure, promoting capacity building, and developing cyber skills.
4.Digital Resilience
Promote Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and collaborate on trusted digital solutions to strengthen digital resilience across the Indo-Pacific.
5.Defence Research Collaboration
Strengthen defence research cooperation by promoting collaboration in defence technology, maritime capabilities, innovation, and start-up ecosystems