Remarks by Marcus Jadotte, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Industry & Analysis at 2016 U.S.-Taiwan Cyber Security Forum Taipei, Taiwan, May 24, 2016

OT-1605E | Date: 05/24/2016 | (As Prepared for Delivery)

U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Industry & Analysis, Marcus Jadotte, Minister Without Portfolio, Dr. Wu Tsung-Tsong, Mr. Simon Hwang, Executive Director of the Taipei Computer Association (Left to Right) (Photo: AIT Images)

Remarks by Marcus Jadotte, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Industry & Analysis at 2016 U.S.-Taiwan Cyber Security Forum

Taipei, Taiwan, May 24, 2016

Minister Without Portfolio, Dr. Wu Tsung-Tsong, Mr. Simon Hwang, Executive Director of the Taipei Computer Association, Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Good afternoon.

On behalf of the United States Department of Commerce and our trade mission delegates, I would like to thank the Taipei Computer Association for organizing this U.S.-Taiwan Cyber Security Forum. We look forward to more of such exchanges, as outlined in our Statement of Intent with the Taipei Computer Association, which we will sign in just a few minutes.

As Taiwan is our ninth largest trading partner, cyber security issues impact our commercial relationship in a deep and meaningful way. The information technology sector is a critical partner in confronting cyber security challenges. That is why I am here in Taiwan this week leading a trade mission of more than a dozen  leading U.S. companies in the realm of cyber security.

Cyber security is a top priority for the United States. Our Congress is currently considering cyber security legislation aimed at improving information sharing and addressing data breaches. I understand that Taiwan is also making efforts to enhance its cyber security policies and regulatory infrastructure.

During today’s Forum, you will hear from our colleague from the National Institute of Standards and Technology about the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. The framework provides a common language for any organization to understand, manage, and express cyber security risk, both internally and externally.

My hope is that our dialogue goes well beyond today’s Forum. It is my  great pleasure to sign a Statement of Intent on behalf of the U.S. Department of Commerce with the Taipei Computer Association. This Statement calls for both sides to explore ways to work together to counter cyber risks and make the internet a safer place for individuals and businesses.  The SOI will also pave the way for closer cooperation and sharing of best practices and market research.  This will further enhance the commercial ties and activities between the United States and Taiwan.

I look forward to putting this Statement into action.

Once again, I thank the Association for our partnership and wish all in attendance great success.

Thank you.