Ukraine and Spain cooperate to strengthen critical infrastructure

Representatives from the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine (SSSCIP) and other government institutions traveled to Madrid to visit key institutions involved in the protection of critical infrastructure. 

The tour, organized by FIIAPP through the EU4DigitalUA project, focused on improving Ukraine’s resilience and strategies for protecting critical infrastructure through collaboration and knowledge exchange with Spanish institutions. 

During the visit, Ukrainian specialists toured the National Center for Critical Infrastructure Protection (CNPIC), the National Cryptologic Center (CCN), the National Cybersecurity Institute of Spain (INCIBE), the Department of National Security (DSN), the Security Technology Center and Data Center facilities (CETSE and CPD), and the Cybersecurity Coordination Office (OCC). Additionally, during their stay in Madrid, the Ukrainian representatives participated in the International Congress on Critical Infrastructure Protection and Resilience of Europe (CIPRE). 

The tour began with visits to the National Center for Critical Infrastructure Protection (CNPIC) and the Cybersecurity Coordination Office (OCC), where the delegation explored Spain’s advanced frameworks for protecting vital systems and managing security threats. Participants also toured the Security Technology Center and Data Center facilities, gaining insights into cutting-edge technological solutions and operational infrastructure. 

“This visit marks a significant step in strengthening collaboration between Spain and Ukraine in the field of critical infrastructure protection. By sharing concrete practices and approaches, we have fostered a deeper understanding of how to effectively address common challenges. The knowledge and partnerships formed during this visit will contribute to building safer and more secure critical infrastructure in Ukraine,” said José Luis Pérez Pajuelo, Director of CNPIC. 

On the second day, participants visited the National Cryptologic Center (CCN), where they explored Spain’s cryptographic security systems and governance models. The group also actively participated in the CIPRE International Congress, interacting with global leaders in critical infrastructure protection and sharing Ukraine’s perspective on resilience in the face of evolving threats. 

The Ukrainian delegation also visited the headquarters of FIIAPP, where the National Center for Critical Infrastructure Protection and the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding. 

“The signing of this Memorandum is an important step toward increasing the effectiveness of protecting Ukraine’s critical infrastructure. The exchange of experiences, harmonization of Ukrainian legislation with European standards, and joint projects with Spanish specialists who have significant experience in this area will allow us to more effectively confront modern threats,” said Oleksandr Potii, Head of the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine (SSSCIP). 

This visit reflects the commitment of both Spain and Ukraine to strengthen ties and improve their capacities to address critical infrastructure challenges. The exchange of knowledge and collaborative efforts will contribute to the development of robust and adaptable strategies for critical infrastructure protection in Ukraine.