Quantum technologies are getting momentum in the EU

On February 27 Austria, Bulgaria, Denmark and Romania have agreed to work together with 20 other EU Member States towards the development of a quantum communication infrastructure (QCI) across Europe.

The purpose of the QCI will be to develop in Europe the Quantum Internet, interconnecting quantum computers, simulators and sensors to distribute information and quantum resources securely all over Europe. This initiative aims at reaching a competitive European industry in quantum technologies to make Europe a leader in the future global industrial landscape.

The European Commission, together with a large number of EU Member States, considers the settlement of a quantum secure communication infrastructure as essential to ensure the long-term storage of sensitive data in the field of healthcare. It is worth noting that the use of this new technology is in line with the objectives set by the Commission in its Communication on the European strategy for data, including the ones referring to cybersecurity and the setting up of EU Health Data Space.

The path towards new quantum solutions and developments in regard to the safety of the transmission and storage of sensitive information and data is also important when it comes to deal with the safe exchange of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) across the EU. As highlighted in its Communication entitled Shaping Europe’s digital future, the Commission is willing to harmonise cross-border EHRs with the creation of the EHR exchange format. This objective can be fulfilled by tacking advantages of opportunities offered by the creation of a common quantum communication infrastructure.

It is also worth noting that during the period 2021-2027 quantum technologies will be supported by the Digital Europe programme, which will develop and reinforce Europe's strategic digital capacities, as well as the Commission’s Horizon Europe programme, contributing to research and space applications.

Quantum technologies in the area of cybersecurity is highly relevant for Members of the Avicenna Alliance. The development of new quantum technologies can ensure that data required to build, validate and run predictive models is well protected. The protection of privacy is a key topic in in silico trials and medicines!

The objective now is for the signatory countries to complete their preliminary work and, by the end of this year, prepare an action plan towards building a QCI in Europe.