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A comprehensive reporting event highlighting the activities of the Association of Cyber Security Organizations of Azerbaijan (ACOA) for the year 2023 was organized

20.12.2023

A comprehensive reporting event highlighting the activities of the Association of Cyber Security Organizations of Azerbaijan (ACOA) for the year 2023 was organized

On December 19, 2023, a reporting event detailing the activities of ACOA in 2023 took place. Leaders and representatives of legal entities, who are members of the ACOA General Meeting, as well as ACOA partner institutions and organizations, including higher education institutions and companies, actively participated in this insightful gathering. Elvin Balajanov, Chairman of the ACOA Board of Members, set the tone for the event with an insightful introduction. He extended a warm welcome to the participants and proceeded to present a detailed report on the activities carried out by ACOA in 2023. The report highlighted that throughout the year, ACOA received a total of 178 membership applications. ACOA, officially registered with the state on April 19, 2022, is committed to supporting the enhancement of the cybersecurity ecosystem in the Republic of Azerbaijan. Out of the applications received, 86 entities were successfully admitted to ACOA membership. Presently, the ACOA membership stands at 110, with 50 being legal entities. It was emphasized that ACOA orchestrated over 30 diverse events, including forums, conferences, seminars, webinars, competitions, and training sessions throughout the current year. These initiatives were designed with the aim of heightening awareness and bolstering personnel capabilities. Notably, these events drew the participation of over 4,000 individuals. Furthermore, it was highlighted that ACOA conducted meetings and discussions with over 90 diverse companies and organizations to foster collaboration in the realm of cybersecurity. A significant milestone included a series of business trips by ACOA representatives to five foreign countries, namely South Korea, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Israel, and Romania, aimed at fortifying international cooperation. A notable achievement in ACOA's international endeavors was the selection of a member for the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Centers for Combating Computer Incidents (OIC-CERT) cooperation platform. Additionally, it was underscored that ACOA actively supported the establishment of cyber clubs in 14 higher education institutions across the country. The event participants were apprised that ACOA successfully executed over 10 projects and events throughout the year focused on research and development. Simultaneously, the efforts undertaken to enhance the country's standing in global cybersecurity rankings yielded significant results. It was disclosed that the Republic of Azerbaijan ascended 36 positions in the "National Cybersecurity Index" ranking table (https://ncsi.ega.ee/), which evaluates 161 countries, attesting to the effectiveness of the pertinent activities conducted. After the break, the chairman of ACOA brought the draft of the Association's Action Plan for 2024 to the attention of the event participants. In the upcoming year, ACOA envisions the implementation of a range of innovative and targeted initiatives, in addition to regular measures across various areas of activity. Notably, the completion of the "National Cybersecurity Index" and associated assessments for the country, as well as active support for the measures outlined in the "Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Information Security and Cybersecurity for 2023-2027," were highlighted. It was emphasized that organizing an international conference in the field of cybersecurity stands out as a key priority for the next year. Simultaneously, it was highlighted that ACOA will be introducing a catalog of products and solutions from its members, along with the establishment of the ACOA Vacancy Bank. Moreover, plans for the year 2024 include extensive initiatives to enhance collaboration with higher education institutions, with a special focus on establishing the 'Union of Cyber Clubs.' Additionally, efforts will be directed towards crafting comprehensive scientific and methodical teaching materials for the 'Information Security' specialty. The revamped website of ACOA (www.akta.az) was unveiled during the event. ACOA Deputy Chairman, Rauf Jabarov, provided insights into the updated platform. Emphasizing its modernized features, the website aims to enhance communication among ACOA members and ensure the prompt dissemination of information to the public about ongoing initiatives. The site boasts an expert bank and members' catalog, facilitating the presentation of ACOA experts and members, alongside a dedicated section to showcase the catalog of products and solutions from ACOA members. Furthermore, the introduction of a personal cabinet and online communication tools is designed to foster better interactions and relationships among members. During the General Meeting, members, including representatives from partner institutions and organizations, delivered speeches affirming the success of ACOA's activities in 2023. Varied opinions and suggestions were shared concerning the measures outlined for implementation by ACOA in 2024. Notably, there was unanimous acknowledgment of the critical importance of actively supporting the measures outlined in the Action Plan of the Strategy, as endorsed by Presidential Order No. 4060 dated August 28, 2023. Additionally, it was emphasized that the execution of other planned measures by ACOA could play a pivotal role in further fortifying the ecosystem. At the event, newly admitted legal entities to ACOA membership were officially presented with certificates recognizing their affiliation with the association.