European Commission welcomes G7 declaration on AI and cybersecurity risks
The G7 declaration calls for stronger international cooperation on AI-related cyber threats, post-quantum cryptography, telecommunications resilience, and cybersecurity support for SMEs.
The European Commission has welcomed a new G7 Cybersecurity Working Group Declaration aimed at strengthening international cooperation on cyber threats.
The declaration was adopted under France’s G7 Presidency. It focuses on several areas where digital security risks are increasing, including AI, quantum computing, telecommunications infrastructure, and the protection of small and medium-sized enterprises.
One priority is the transition to post-quantum cryptography. This refers to new encryption methods designed to remain secure against future quantum computers. Current encryption systems protect online banking, government communications, cloud services, and many other digital systems. Some of them could become vulnerable if powerful quantum computers become available.
The G7 declaration treats migration to quantum-resistant encryption as an urgent task. Governments and organisations are being encouraged to start preparing now, because replacing cryptographic systems can take years.
AI is another focus of the declaration. The G7 recognises that AI can help defenders detect cyber threats, analyse incidents, and protect systems more effectively. It can also be used by attackers to automate cyber operations, find vulnerabilities, manipulate models, or support data breaches.
The European Commission said it is preparing an action plan on AI and cybersecurity. The plan is intended to help EU Member States and businesses manage emerging AI-related cyber risks and strengthen resilience.
The declaration also highlights telecommunications security. Telecom networks carry internet traffic, mobile communications, emergency services, and business operations. Disruption or compromise of these networks can therefore affect public services, companies, and citizens.
The G7 also calls for stronger cybersecurity support for SMEs. Smaller businesses often face the same threats as larger organisations but have fewer staff, tools, and resources to respond.
The EU linked the declaration to its existing cybersecurity framework, including the NIS2 Directive and the Cyber Resilience Act. These rules aim to improve security requirements for critical sectors, digital products, and connected technologies.
The Commission said it will continue working with G7 partners on cybersecurity standards, critical infrastructure protection, post-quantum cryptography, and AI-related cyber risks.
