OTTAWA — The Liberal government of Canada has prioritized quantum technologies for the upcoming G7 meeting in Kananaskis, marking the first time such emerging technology will take center stage at the summit. This initiative aims to highlight Canada's strengths in the field, which promises to revolutionize various industries, similar to artificial intelligence (AI).
Mark Daley, a professor and chief AI officer at Western University, emphasized that while AI has progressed further than quantum technologies, the latter represents an early-stage investment with the potential for transformative impacts. He stated, “It lets us compute things much faster, using much less energy than classical computers,” underscoring the urgency of integrating quantum technology into discussions of economic growth.
Ahead of the summit from June 15 to 17, the Prime Minister's Office outlined Canada's objectives, stating it would "seek agreements and co-ordinated action" on topics including "using artificial intelligence and quantum to unleash economic growth." This reflects a strategic intent to ensure Canada is a leader in quantum technology development.
The industry response has been overwhelmingly positive, with Quantum Industry Canada labeling this as a "major milestone" for the sector. Quantum technologies leverage quantum mechanics principles for various applications, including computing, sensing, and secure communications. Michael Murphy, a post-doctoral fellow at Queen's University, noted the importance of real-world applications of quantum technologies, which enhance security, efficiency, and accuracy.
One of the key advancements discussed is the rapid increase in processing power that quantum computers promise. Paul Samson, president of the Centre for International Governance Innovation, mentioned that while quantum computing has not yet reached widespread commercialization, certain technologies, like quantum sensing and post-quantum cryptography, are already viable. These technologies play crucial roles in national security and infrastructure, highlighting the urgent need for effective cybersecurity measures to combat potential cyber threats.
Florian Martin-Bariteau, a research chair in technology and society at the University of Ottawa, cautioned that the national security of all countries depends on investing in quantum computing capabilities and safeguards. He pointed out that sectors such as banking, telecommunications, and power grids, which rely on existing algorithms, would be vulnerable to attacks from quantum computers. There is an imperative to prepare before quantum computers become mainstream.
Canada has been recognized as a leader in quantum research and startups, a position that mirrors its status in AI approximately 15 years ago. Samson stressed the importance of scaling up in quantum technology to avoid losing commercial opportunities to other countries, particularly the United States, as has happened with AI in the past.
Martin-Bariteau echoed this sentiment, expressing hope that Canada's quantum ecosystem remains intact and does not face the same fate as the AI sector, which saw significant foreign acquisition. Recommendations leading up to the G7 meeting included establishing a G7 contact group to coordinate quantum supply chains and initiating an observatory specifically for quantum safety.
Martin-Bariteau further noted the pressing need for regulation in terms of import-export policies regarding quantum technologies. He explained that these regulations are currently inhibiting collaboration among nations and threatening partnerships vital for advancing quantum technology.
While quantum technology is a new focal point, AI has been previously addressed in G7 agendas. The article cited Japan’s presidency, which initiated the Hiroshima process concentrating on generative AI standards, and Italy’s focus on AI applications in the public sector. Daley remarked on the seriousness with which G7 governments regard these technologies, deeming them significant factors for change in economies and societies.
