Quantum technologies: Why transatlantic collaboration matters more than ever - The Official Microsoft Blog
Summarize this article with:
Quantum technologies are rapidly moving from the realm of theory to real-world impact, promising to reshape everything from cybersecurity to scientific discovery. As Europe and its partners navigate this new frontier, the stakes for international collaboration have never been higher. In our latest #TechTalk, we sat down with Lindsay Gorman, Managing Director and Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund’s technology program, to explore what quantum technologies mean for Europe, why they are important, and how transatlantic collaboration and leadership in this space matter more than ever. Quantum technology, as Lindsay explains, is a suite of technologies drawing on the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, like superposition and entanglement. Scientific breakthroughs in this space could lead to much faster computing, more accurate sensing technologies, and ultra-secure communications that were once thought impossible. While quantum computing is still being developed, its ability to tackle problems that today’s computers can’t solve is focusing attention and investments on a global level. But with new capabilities come new risks. Quantum computing, in particular, poses a unique challenge to today’s cryptographic systems. As Lindsay notes, “quantum computers could literally break modern encryption. And that’s why it’s really a race for who gets there first.” The good news: scientists are already developing post-quantum cryptography standards, but governments and industries must accelerate adoption to make their systems quantum safe. Many of the foundational advances in quantum science and post-quantum cryptography have been the result of close transatlantic cooperation. For example, European researchers have made significant scientific contributions to post quantum cryptography standards issued by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology. US companies, including Microsoft, are investing in Europe-based quantum labs, and French companies like Stella & Bob contribute to the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) or, in the case of Pasqal, commercialize their technological know-how globally. In other words, the story of quantum is inherently global and one of shared progress. As we look to the future, Lindsay identifies four priorities for transatlantic technology cooperation: deepening scientific collaboration on quantum and moving in the same direction on standardization; building innovation ecosystems for collective defense; aligning on AI governance; and accelerating biotech partnerships. Only by working together can Europe and its partners ensure that technological breakthroughs serve democratic values and advance prosperity. Her advice: “Don’t let our differences get in the way of what we do share and the opportunities that we have together.