BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. A Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the field of cybersecurity
has been signed between Azerbaijan's Innovation and Digital
Development Agency (IDDA) and Mastercard, a source in IDDA told
Trend.


The cooperation aims to introduce advanced cybersecurity
technology in our country, strengthen cyber resilience at the
organizational and ecosystem levels, support the development of
startups and innovation, and increase professional skills and
leadership potential in the field of cybersecurity.


During a meeting with the management team of Mastercard, Deputy
Minister of Digital Development and Transport Rashad Hasanov
emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships and stated
that the study and application of advanced technological experience
serve the implementation of Azerbaijan's national priorities in the
field of digital development and innovation.


Hasanov also noted that special importance will be given to
cooperation with Mastercard in the field of cybersecurity.


"An important direction of our cooperation will be
digitalization, innovation, and development of human capital in the
field of cybersecurity. Leading experts from Mastercard will be
involved in our joint projects, and experience will be exchanged
with colleagues in Azerbaijan," he explained.


As part of the cooperation with Mastercard, complex support
mechanisms will be implemented to accelerate the development of
startups.


Within this framework, startups will be selected and
accelerated, provided with access to financial resources, access to
international expert and investor networks, as well as mentoring
and skills development. At the same time, broad opportunities will
be created for startups to access local and global markets and
commercialize.


In addition, the MoU envisages the implementation of a regional
leadership and cross-border cooperation program. The program will
aim to bring together information security management teams from
various organizations, financial institutions, and companies,
exchange experiences, discuss topical issues, and cooperate with
foreign countries in the relevant field.







Developing sustainable human capital in the field of
cybersecurity will also be an important aspect of the cooperation.
Thus, training programs, education, and mentoring programs on
cybersecurity governance, risk management, and compliance will be
implemented within the framework of human capital development.


This partnership aims to position Azerbaijan as a regional
innovation and cybersecurity hub, as well as implement structured
regional programs aimed at strengthening resilience, developing
skills, promoting inter-institutional cooperation, and promoting
the export potential of products and services in the broader CIS
region.


Chief Services Officer at Mastercard, Craig Vosburg, noted that
Azerbaijan has great potential for digital transformation,
innovation, and human capital development.


"Azerbaijan is one of the countries where digital technology is
rapidly developing. I think this cooperation will be beneficial for
both parties in terms of exchange of experience," he said.


Mastercard is a global technology company operating in more than
200 countries and specializing primarily in payment systems. The
company provides solutions for the implementation of secure and
inclusive digital transactions through advanced technologies,
cybersecurity solutions, and data-driven services. Mastercard
promotes innovation, global partnerships, and the development of
digital infrastructure to support governments, the private sector,
and individuals in building long-term and sustainable digital
ecosystems.


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