USTDA Helps Launch Cybersecurity Innovation Center in Romania

(USTDA) BUCHAREST, Romania – Yesterday, as a result of an ongoing feasibility study funded by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency in partnership with Fidelis Cybersecurity (Waltham, MA), the Romanian Government launched a cybersecurity innovation center (CIC). Under the leadership of the Centrul National de Raspuns la Incidente de Securitate Cibernetica (CERT-Ro), the CIC will provide a collaborative environment for public and private entities to solve complex cybersecurity issues using an agile methodology and technology framework. This will enable the Government of Romania to identify, assess and manage cyber risks.

“Fidelis is excited to be part of this project with USTDA and CERT-Ro,” said Michael Lotas, Fidelis’ Director International Cybersecurity Services. “The Center, which will be able to rapidly test cybersecurity solutions, has the potential to be a model for other countries in the region.”

“Cyber threats are a global challenge and, in order to protect our critical infrastructure, we must form partnerships with government, industry and our citizens,” said Lauren Ziegler, USTDA’s Manager for Global Programs. “U.S. companies are leading the innovation in cybersecurity technologies, and I hope that their solutions will be fully integrated into Romania’s cybersecurity planning.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Victor Ponta, was featured during the Cyber Security Trade Mission of 20 U.S. companies led by U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Bruce Andrews. To build upon the success of the trade mission, USTDA will host a follow-on reverse trade mission to the United States to further connect Romanian stakeholders with U.S. public and private cybersecurity experts.