With computer networks increasingly viewed as a realm for spying and warfare, the U.S., China, Russia and a dozen other countries have outlined principles on how to improve so-called "cybersecurity."
Diplomats finalized a set of proposals to the United Nations Friday. The steps include developing international standards for conduct over the Internet, sharing information about each country's cybersecurity laws, and helping less-developed nations strengthen their computer defenses.
Diplomatic progress on cybersecurity has stagnated in recent years, but U.S. President Barack Obama made the issue one of his administration's priorities.
Russia has proposed a cybersecurity treaty similar to international restrictions on chemical weapons. The U.S. previously has rejected the idea.
Other countries that agreed to Friday's proposals were Belarus, Brazil, Britain, Estonia, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Qatar, South Africa and South Korea.
It was not immediately clear when the U.N. would consider the recommendations.
