Tirana, Albania – The National Authority for Cybersecurity of Albania and the British Council have formalized a partnership aimed at bolstering cybersecurity capabilities within the Balkan nation. The agreement, signed during the closing ceremony of the CybHER project, outlines collaborative efforts in skills development, policy support, and overall capacity building.
British Ambassador to Albania, Nick Abbott, and Majlinda Mazelliu, Director of the British Council for Albania and Kosovo, attended the signing event, emphasizing the critical need for investment in human capital and sustained partnerships to advance the sector. According to a statement released by the National Authority for Cybersecurity, the collaboration will focus on expanding training programs and initiatives designed to cultivate talent in the field.
Saimir Kapllani, Acting Director General of the National Authority for Cybersecurity, highlighted talent development as a strategic priority, asserting that cybersecurity is a core component of national security. “Strategies and technologies require strong personnel capacities to function effectively,” Kapllani stated. “Investment in skills, knowledge, experience, and talent is the foundation of a sustainable cybersecurity system.”
The memorandum of understanding specifically addresses the importance of strengthening the participation of girls and women in cybersecurity. Kapllani argued that greater inclusivity would enhance national capabilities and improve team performance in addressing complex threats. The partnership will actively promote concrete professional opportunities for women in the sector.
The agreement comes as cybersecurity threats continue to evolve globally. The Swiss Federal Cybersecurity Centre (BACS) recently issued warnings regarding ongoing phishing attempts targeting citizens and financial institutions, including fraudulent calls impersonating BACS employees to verify suspicious bank transactions. BACS advises citizens to immediately terminate such calls and refrain from providing any information to the perpetrators. BACS has reported a surge in “ClickFix” attacks, where users are tricked into executing malicious code through false technical issues.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in the UK provides guidance and support to enhance online safety within the United Kingdom. The Albanian initiative with the British Council appears to be modeled on similar international collaborations aimed at strengthening national cybersecurity infrastructure.
