Europe, 13 November 2024 – Commissioner-designate Henna Virkkunen declared her commitment to positioning quantum technology at the forefront of the European Union’s strategic initiatives during her hearing before the European Parliament. Emphasizing quantum technology’s crucial role in shaping Europe’s future, Virkkunen advocated for a robust European Union (EU) quantum strategy, which includes the development of a European quantum chip and the potential for a dedicated Quantum Act.
Virkkunen’s statement underscored the potential of quantum technology to drive the EU’s competitiveness and secure strategic technological sovereignty. She highlighted that quantum advancements would be instrumental in addressing complex challenges across various sectors, building a foundation for the Union’s leadership in the fast-growing global quantum economy. Her strong stance marks a change in gear to secure the EU’s position as a leading global hub in commercial quantum solutions.
Virkkunen’s vision aligns with her goal of a unified quantum strategy across EU Member States, a move she argues will address the current fragmentation caused by individual national strategies. “I will present a Quantum strategy,” Virkkunen stated, reinforcing her goal of a cohesive EU approach. The strategy will take into account existing legislative frameworks, such as the Chips Act, and may lay the groundwork for a future Quantum Act.
European Quantum Industry Consortium strongly backs Virkkunen’s proposal
The European Quantum Industry Consortium (QuIC) fully supports Virkkunen’s vision. Thierry Botter, Executive Director of QuIC, stated, “The European Quantum Industry Consortium strongly believes in the proposal outlined Commissioner-designate Virkkunen during her hearing. The measure will strengthen the EU’s position in the growing global quantum economy, establishing Europe as a central hub for quantum development.”
QuIC’s support reflects the consortium’s mission to position the pan-European quantum industry as a leader in the competitive global landscape. Virkkunen’s plan for a comprehensive EU strategy will meaningfully drive forward this objective.
In her address, Virkkunen also emphasized the need to curb technological dependence on non-European markets and reduce risks associated with technology leakage. This focus on security, tech sovereignty, and innovation is part of a broader vision to foster a technologically advanced and resilient Europe. As the EU sets its sights on becoming a leader in the quantum realm, Virkkunen’s announcement marks a transformative step toward realizing a more competitive and sovereign digital European landscape.
