by Joe Spencer
The International Council of Quantum Industry Associations (ICQIA) is urging Canada to prioritize quantum technologies during its 2025 G7 Presidency, seeing it as a pivotal opportunity to solidify global leadership in this transformative field.
Why is this Important?
- Quantum technologies are essential for economic prosperity and national security. The ICQIA highlights that other G7 nations and security alliances are rapidly increasing their focus and investments in this area, such as NATO with it’s billion dollar innovation fund and the AUKUS Framework.
- 2025 is a landmark year for quantum. The UN has declared it the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, and Canada will host the inaugural QUANTUM NOW / ICI QUANTIQUE forum in Montreal (June 18– 19th 2025). This convergence of events creates a perfect stage for G7 discussions on quantum advancements. And it is GQI’s opinion that the ICQIA should use this to facilitate conversation between G7 members and industry leaders. Perhaps utilising members of industry bodies or leaders in the fields with focused discussions on how quantum can impact SDGs (societal development goals)
What are the key calls to action?
The ICQIA proposes that Canada spearhead global action in the following areas:
- Enhanced cooperation among G7 nations to position them as leaders in the quantum revolution.
- Harnessing quantum solutions to address global challenges like energy-efficient AI and achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
- Strengthening quantum supply chains and fostering talent pipelines to build enduring quantum capabilities across G7 nations
- Leveraging quantum technologies to bolster economic growth and address national security concerns, reinforcing the G7’s global influence.
This message carry’s significant weight behind it, with the ICQIA representing nearly 600 stakeholders across the international quantum innovation ecosystem, standing ready to support Canada in this endeavour.
A letter sent by ICQIA to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urging him to take this under consideration can be accessed here.
October 14, 2024