United States and the European Union reaffirm cooperation and shared values in the global digital economy

In a joint statement following the 16th United States (U.S.) and the European Union (EU) Information Society Dialogue (ISD), held on 23 May 2019 in Washington D.C., both sides reaffrimed commitment to enhancing global security and prosperity. Commitment to counter the use of Internet for terrorist activities was stressed. It also emphasises the importance of ‘mutual coordination on digital matters in international fora such as the G7, G20, the International Telecommunications Union, WTO, and Internet Governance Forum’. Thirdly, it mentions concerns about the use of ICTs for repression and social control. Underscored as relevant were further development of the fifth generation Internet (5G), as well as addressing issues and threats related to its use. Participants exchanged updates on their cybersecurity policies, discussed the EU Cybersecurity Act implications, as well as how to improve the trans-Atlantic trade. It was agreed for the next ISD to be organised by the EU in 2020, in Brussels.​