Latvian Scientists Drive Cooperation and Innovation in Quantum Technology in the Baltic Sea Region

The round table discussion "Quantum Technology Landscape: Catalyzing regional Collaboration and Innovation" supported by the Ministry of Education and Science was attended by representatives from  the European Commission (EC), France, Germany, Poland, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia gathered to discuss progress and future cooperation opportunities in quantum technology development. Currently, within the "QuantERA ERA-NET" program, scientists from the University of Latvia (UL) are implementing an international project in collaboration with researchers from France and Germany to design, implement and explore novel types of non-classical states in semiconductor nanoelectronic circuits.

Catie Low, representative of the EC, highlighted the success of the European Union (EU) Quantum Technologies Flagship initiative and the strategic pillars of the EU's quantum ecosystem, which include transferring quantum technology from the laboratory to the market and strengthening Europe's scientific leadership in quantum research, including fundamental research and development (R&D) and technology delivery.

“Alongside technological advancement, it is crucial to develop human potential in the field of quantum. In Latvia investments from the EU Recovery Fund and the state budget amounting to more than 6 million euros have been made, specifically for developing quantum technology skills. By establishing the Latvian Quantum Initiative, we have strengthened expertise in the field of quantum technology, thereby making a significant contribution to scientific achievements on a global scale,” emphasized Jānis Paiders, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Culture for Human Capital, Science, and Innovation.

The Latvian Quantum Initiative was established in 2022 to support the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and technology related to the practical application of quantum physics theory. Within its framework, a quantum excellence and competence center has been created, bringing together researchers and industry representatives to collaboratively work on quantum technology development. In addition to research and development, study modules in the field of quantum technology, such as "Quantum Computing" at the UL and "Quantum Communication Technology" at the Riga Technical University, are offered for both students and listeners. It is a long-term investment, where the potential for cooperation with neighboring countries is visible.

The potential of quantum technology becomes a reality when industry and researchers work together to offer specific solutions, comments Vyacheslavs Kashcheyevs, quantum physicist and tenured professor at the UL. The success of the Latvian Quantum Initiative is rooted in mutual understanding, as academia collaborates with industry. The international forum "5G Techritory" serves as a platform for meetings and discussions where “quantum is normalized.”

It is important that Latvia actively participates in international cooperation. Together with 26 other EU member states, in 2024 the Ministry of Education and Science signed the European Quantum Declaration, under which member states commit to collaborating in creating a world-class quantum technology ecosystem in Europe, emphasizing the strategic importance of quantum technology in the scientific and industrial competitiveness of the EU.

Latvian scientists have been engaged in quantum computing theory since 1998.

Latvia’s leading role in the development of quantum algorithms already represents a significant contribution on a global scale - approximately 10% of quantum algorithms are a result of Latvian scientists’ dedicated work.

Collaboration with industry in the field of quantum technology is already very important. The world's first SOHO (small office/home office) wireless router with integrated quantum random number generation (QRNG) was manufactured by the Latvian company “Mikrotīkls”, Ltd.

The co-creation event "Quantum Technology Landscape: Catalyzing regional Collaboration and Innovation" supported by the Ministry of Education and Science was part of the "5G Techritory Forum" program on October 30, 2024. The discussion took place in project No. 1.1.1.1/1/24/I/001 within the framework of " More Efficient Implementation and Management of Latvia's Science Policy".