U.S. - Mexico Cyber Affairs Working Group

August 10, 2022

Institutional Context

In October 2021, the United States and Mexico created the Bicentennial Framework for Security. Building on past security cooperation efforts, this Framework establishes a long-term approach for binational actions to pursue the safety and security of both societies. This mechanism is a joint binational effort to protect human rights, share information and best practices, prosecute those who violate the law, and regularly and transparently evaluate the impact of those efforts. The Framework comprises three goals: protecting people, preventing transborder crime, and pursuing criminal networks. In accordance with current times and the relevant role of technology, the Framework also encompases topics of ceybercrime and cybersecurity.

U.S. - Mexico Cyber Affairs Working Group

On August 10th, 2022, the Mexico - United States Cyber Affairs Working Group convened its first bilateral cyber dialogue since the establishment of the Mexico - United States Bicentennial Understanding for Security, Public Health and Safe Communities. The main objective of the meeting was to advance bilateral cooperation on cyber issues in line with the shared commitment of the two countries to an open, interoperable Internet, safe and reliable and stable cyberspace.

During the meeting, delegations addressed various aspects of each country's institutional structure and strategy to deal with threats in cyberspace. Institutional capacities to prevent and deal with cybercrime were also presented, as well as fostering a greater culture of prevention and a greater awareness of the importance of cybersecurity. In addition, specific topics of cooperation between the two countries in the area of cyber defense, cybersecurity and the protection of critical infrastructure were presented.

Officials also discussed shared interest in the multilateral arena to promote open, interoperable, secure and reliable Internet access for all citizens. In this sense, Mexico and the United States reaffirm the applicability of international law in cyberspace, and they will continue to promote the adherence and implementation of the framework for responsible state behavior adopted by the United Nations General Assembly, to promote stability and responsibility in cyberspace.

Both countries committed to continue strengthening cooperation to build a more resilient region and expand cooperation to address shared threats in cyberspace. Both countries also committed to coordinate with Canada the convening of a Trilateral Meeting of Experts in Cyberspace in 2022, in accordance with the commitments made at the 2021 North American Leaders Summit.