Ukraine and Spain reinforce critical infrastructure expertise

Representatives of the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine (SSSCIP) and other governmental bodies successfully completed a study tour to Madrid, Spain from November 11 to 15. The tour, organised by EU4DigitalUA and FIIAPP, focused on enhancing Ukraine’s resilience and strategies for protecting critical infrastructures through collaboration and knowledge exchange with Spanish institutions.

The study tour had several key objectives, among them engaging with Spanish institutions, including the National Center for Critical Infrastructure Protection (CNPIC), the National Cryptologic Center (CCN), the Spanish National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE), the Department of National Security (DSN), the Security Technology Centre and Data Center facilities (CETSE and CPD), and the Cybersecurity Coordination Office (OCC); participating in the Critical Infrastructure Protection and Resilience Europe (CIPRE) International Congress in Madrid from November 12–14; and exchanging expertise on critical infrastructure protection strategies.

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

“This visit marks a significant step in strengthening the 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 address shared challenges effectively. The insights and partnerships formed during this visit will contribute to building a safer and more secure critical infrastructure in Ukraine,” said José Luis Pérez Pajuelo, Director of CNPIC.

On the second day, they 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, engaging with global leaders in critical infrastructure protection and sharing Ukraine’s perspective on resilience in the face of evolving threats.

On November 14, 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 (MoU) at the headquarters of the International and Ibero-American Foundation for Administration and Public Policies (FIIAPP). The final day included a visit to the Spanish National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE). 

“The signing of this Memorandum is an important step towards increasing the effectiveness of the protection of Ukraine’s critical infrastructure. Exchange of experience, harmonisation 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 of Special Communication and Information Protection of Ukraine (SSSCIP).

This visit reflects the commitment of both Spain and Ukraine to strengthening ties and improving their respective capacities to address critical infrastructure challenges. The exchange of expertise and collaborative efforts will contribute to the development of robust and adaptable critical infrastructure protection strategies in Ukraine.