India and Australia have launched the Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS), a new framework to strengthen cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, critical technologies and resilient supply chains. Announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Australia, the agreement replaces the cyber cooperation framework signed by the two countries in 2020 and broadens their technology partnership.
India and Australia have taken a major step to deepen their technology partnership with the launch of PACTS, a new framework that will guide cooperation in emerging technologies, digital security and trusted supply chains.
The new partnership replaces the 2020 Framework Arrangement on Cyber and Cyber-Enabled Critical Technology Cooperation. While the earlier agreement focused mainly on cybersecurity, PACTS brings together a wider range of areas that are becoming increasingly important for economic growth and national security.
The framework is built around five key areas: resilient supply chains, critical technologies, cybersecurity, digital resilience and defence research. Through these areas, both countries aim to strengthen cooperation between governments, research institutions and industry.
As part of the partnership, India and Australia will work together on technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technologies, space technologies, telecommunications, biotechnology and advanced materials. They will also collaborate on developing international standards for the safe and secure use of AI.
Building secure and reliable technology supply chains is another key focus of the agreement. The two countries plan to increase cooperation in semiconductors, critical minerals, undersea cable security and trade diversification to make supply chains more resilient.
The partnership also expands cybersecurity cooperation. India and Australia will work together to combat cybercrime, protect critical infrastructure, strengthen cyber diplomacy, encourage investment in cybersecurity and support skill development in the sector.
In addition, both countries will promote the use of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) across the Indo-Pacific and explore digital solutions for healthcare, education, clean energy and connectivity. The agreement also includes joint defence research, innovation projects and collaboration on maritime and other emerging defence technologies.
To ensure the partnership continues to grow, India and Australia have agreed to hold an annual review led by senior officials. The review will track progress, identify new areas for collaboration and assess emerging cyber and technology risks.
The launch of PACTS reflects the growing importance of trusted technologies and secure supply chains in the India-Australia strategic relationship. By expanding cooperation beyond cybersecurity, the two countries have created a long-term framework to support collaboration in next-generation technologies and digital innovation.
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