NEW YORK: Pakistan has made an appeal for the establishment of a global legal framework to tackle the challenges posed by cyberspace. This call was made during an Arria-Formula meeting in New York, focusing on “Commercial Spyware and the Maintenance of International Peace and Security”.

According to a statement by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, the country’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, highlighted the increasing concerns over the militarization of cyberspace and the development of offensive cyber capabilities. Jadoon pointed out the dangers associated with unchecked military applications of new and emerging technologies.

Jadoon emphasized that Pakistan has directly experienced the threats posed by spyware, with hostile actors reportedly utilizing these tools to target Pakistani citizens, public figures, and state entities. This situation underscores the need for international cooperation in developing comprehensive legal measures.

Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment, Jadoon stressed the importance of fostering international dialogue to formulate a robust global legal framework for cyberspace. He noted the urgency of addressing existing gaps in international law to ensure the protection of states and their citizens from cyber threats.