SUVA -- The United States Ambassador to Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Tuvalu and Tonga, Joseph Cella announced that the Republic of Nauru has joined the Clean Network, a comprehensive, enduring strategy addressing the long-term threats to data privacy, security, human rights, and trusted collaboration.

President of the Republic of Nauru, Lionel Aingimea, and U.S. Under Secretary of State Keith Krach agreed on the importance of securing telecommunications infrastructure and ensuring safe technology supply chains based on internationally accepted digital trust standards.

They express their commitment to protecting peoples’ personal data, companies’ intellectual property, and each country’s national security by excluding high-risk 5G equipment suppliers. President Aingimea stated, “It is critical that the data traveling across 5G infrastructure is safe. The Clean Network provides a trusted foundation for countries and companies to ensure the security of their most sensitive information. The Republic of Nauru is proud to be a member of the Clean Network.”

The Republic of Nauru joins more than 50 Clean Countries, 180 Clean Telcos and many of the global high-tech Clean Companies on the Clean Network. Under Secretary Krach added, “The Republic of Nauru’s participation in the Clean Network paves the way for expanded U.S private sector investment and strengthens the joint security of like-minded partners in the region and around the world.” Under Secretary Krach and President Aingimea further emphasized the critical importance of ensuring a Nauru–U.S. partnership based on transparency, reciprocity, respect for sovereignty and the rule of law. These principles underpin the relationship between the two countries and will serve as a trusted guide in the vital area of 5G security.

Ambassador Cella said, “This announcement is incredible news for data security in the Pacific now and in the future. I have been honored to be part of this multi-year, strategic effort built on a coalition of trusted partners as a bridge builder and advocate for transparency.”

The U.S. Government stands ready to help countries and companies transition to clean networks with the support of the U.S. Development Finance Corporation with over US$30 billion in development finance capacity; the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) with more than US$90 billion to support projects connected to U.S. exports and the U.S. Trade & Development Agency which can help with feasibility studies, technical assistance, trade missions and pilot projects.