Japan, European Union plan to meet for cybersecurity discussions

Japanese officials plan to meet with the European Union to discuss cybersecurity efforts, especially from mounting attacks from China, Russia, North Korea, Iran, and organized cybercriminal groups. Japan has become a leader in international cybersecurity cooperation, already holding meetings with the United States and England, as more governments become aware of growing cybersecurity threats.

Many western countries are now "facing more severe, widespread and globalized risks surrounding cyberspace... protection of a safe, open and secure cyberspace is needed," according to both sides.

Despite political tensions, Japan and South Korea have a shared goal: to defend against cyberattacks from China and North Korea. Earlier in the year, both countries mentioned cybersecurity talks would need to be held, but it wasn't the appropriate time - but increased cooperation between Japan and the EU could help bring South Korea into the fold.