Luxembourg and Belgium strengthen cooperation on secure Quantum communication

On 21 May 2024, Luxembourg and Belgium strengthened their cooperation in the field of terrestrial quantum communication, an area of strategic importance to both countries. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed on the establishment of a terrestrial cross-border Quantum connection within the national Quantum Communication Infrastucture initiatives LuxQCI and BeQCI, both part of the EuroQCI initiative.

The agreement is a recognition of the quantum expertise in our respective countries.

“This cross-border connection will ensure future secure connectivity between our countries. The agreement is a symbol of our excellent bilateral relationship, and a recognition of the quantum expertise in our respective countries,” stated Elisabeth Margue – Luxembourg’s PM Delegate for Media and Connectivity.

Together, we are pushing the boundaries of possibility and leading Europe into a new era of digital sovereignty.

Petra de Sutter – Belgium’s Minister for Telecom Punderlined: “We think in terms of opportunities. Quantum connectivity and technology enable data to travel from a to b faster than light and complex problems to be immediately tackled in the fields of pharmaceuticals, energy, healthcare and so on. Every advantage has a cost. Quantum technology could seriously shake up cybersecurity, precisely because it is so fast. We are joining forces with Luxembourg thanks to a cooperation and together we are securing Internet traffic by using the technology of the future. We are one step ahead of the future thanks to this cooperation.”

This is an excellent opportunity to build efficient quantum infrastructure in Europe with a significant link to our space and cybersecurity policies.

Mathieu Michel – Belgium’s Secretary of State for Digitization and Privacy Protection: “As we sign this MoU, we mark a significant milestone in our journey towards a secure and advanced digital future. Establishing a terrestrial cross-border quantum connection between Belgium and Luxembourg enhances our technological capabilities and ensures data protection. This collaboration underscores our commitment to innovation and building robust infrastructure for the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure initiative. By joining forces, we reinforce our friendly relations and pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in quantum technology. I am confident this partnership will foster scientific and economic growth for both nations, positively impacting our digital landscape. Together, we are pushing the boundaries of possibility and leading Europe into a new era of digital sovereignty.”

Press release by the Department of Media, Connectivity and Digital Policy