Latvia-US declaration on 5G network security underscores necessity to evaluate suppliers

RIGA – The joint declaration signed by Latvia and the US on 5G network security underscored the necessity to evaluate suppliers.

The government on Tuesday heard the informative report prepared by the Foreign Ministry on the declaration that was signed on February 27, affirming the wish of both countries to cooperate on 5G network security.

The US and Latvia note that all countries share a responsibility to undertake a careful and balanced approach to network security, and the evaluation of 5G component and software providers.

To promote a vibrant and robust 5G ecosystem, a rigorous evaluation of suppliers should take into account the rule of law, the security environment, ethical supplier practices, and a supplier’s compliance with security standards and best practices.

The US and Latvia believe that it is critical for countries to transition from untrusted network hardware and software suppliers in existing networks to trusted ones through regular life cycle replacements.

“Such efforts will not only improve national security but also provide opportunities for private-sector innovators to succeed under free and fair competition and benefit our respective digital economies,” the declaration says.

Protecting communications networks from disruption or manipulation and ensuring the privacy and individual liberties of the citizens of the United States and Latvia are vital to ensuring that our people are able to take advantage of the tremendous economic opportunities 5G will enable, both countries agree.

As reported, on February 27 in Washington, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo signed a joint declaration on cooperation in 5G security.

When signing the declaration, Rinkevics emphasized that the 5G network will provide a wide range of new applications, including the provision of critical infrastructure and services to the public, to the benefit of Latvian and US citizens and the economy. “Increased data through the 5G network will further connect the world, including the US and Latvian economies, as well as boost cross-border services and trade,” the minister said. (The Baltic Times)

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