Quantum technology experts, scientists, representatives of the ICT industry, and policy makers sign a cooperation memorandum in the development of quantum technology.
The memorandum was signed by the Latvia State Radio and Television Center, «Electronic Communications Office of Latvia», Riga Technical University, University of Latvia, LU Institute of Solid State Physics (ISSP UL), Latvian Mobile Telephone, internet service provider TET, Microtik, Management of the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Defense, and the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development.
The memorandum was signed at the «Waiting for the Quantum Era» co-creation event of the «5G Techritory» international forum, an initiative that promoted a discussion between policymakers, scientists, and industry leaders about the impact of quantum technology on various sectors of the economy, including the challenges of security and technological development.
At the event, experts discussed various aspects of quantum technology development, ranging from national quantum computing initiative (QCI) projects to existing quantum key distribution (QKD) deployments and their real-world applications. They also gained insight into new technologies such as meter-independent quantum key distribution (MDI-QKD technology), and to learn about success stories made possible by the strong synergies between science and industry.
The field of security is arguably one of the most important directions in the development of quantum technology. With the advent of quantum computers, existing encryption principles used for processes such as digital communication and file sharing will no longer be secure. In preparation for the quantum era, researchers are intensively creating new data coding algorithms and modifying, testing, and adapting communication channels for quantum photon streams - creating quantum key exchange QKD processing systems. The infrastructure of quantum networks is currently being created in Latvia, which will be used in the future not only by its creators, but also by representatives of the ICT industry.
Latvia’s quantum network for the use of secure services is expected to be available by the end of 2025 to public sector institutions, merchants, and private individuals. Concurrently, a national-level quantum communication infrastructure and network creation project is being implemented in Latvia with the aim of supporting knowledge, skills, technologies, and ideas related to practical applications of quantum physics theory, as well as other projects with quantum technology applications.
Leading Latvian scientists in the field of quantum technologies from RTU, LU, CFI, and the LU Institute of Mathematics and Informatics created the Latvian Quantum Initiative in late 2022. The association helps to monitor and coordinate activities related to quantum technologies in Latvia, steers involvement in European in quantum technology cooperation networks, follow the needs of the Latvian industry, and represents its interests in the development of quantum technologies.
The development of quantum technologies in Latvia has significant growth and innovation potential. Latvia is emerging as a research and development center for quantum technologies in the region, making this memorandum an important step towards common understanding and sustainable cooperation of all involved parties, exchange of knowledge and experience, and approval of technologies in industries.
