Five Eyes Summit concludes with joint pledge

Senior ministers from the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to work together to tackle a range of security threats.

The pledge follows a two-day summit, known as the Five Country Ministerial, where Home Affairs, Interior Security and Immigration Ministers of the above countries discussed current and emerging threats which could undermine national and global security.

As part of the discussions, ministers focused on common risks posed by new technologies, including connected devices, terrorist use of the internet and foreign terrorist fighters. As such, they committed to continue developing and sharing learning on cyber threats to improve the collective response, enhancing cross border information sharing and creating a stronger approach to the misuse of drones, with the UK hosting an event next year to enhance cooperation.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “The Five Eyes are united that tech firms should not develop their systems and services, including end-to-end encryption, in ways that empower criminals or put vulnerable people at risk. We heard today about the devastating and lifelong impact of child sexual exploitation and abuse and agreed firm commitments to collaborate to get ahead of the threat. As governments, protecting our citizens is our top priority, which is why through the unique and binding partnership of Five Eyes we will tackle these emerging threats together.”

The Five Country Ministerial partnership will be hosted in 2020 by New Zealand.