The recent Canada-EU Digital Partnership agreement holds immense promise for the participating nations and for setting a global example of transatlantic cooperation in the digital age. For Canada, aligning with the European Union—27 nations with a collective GDP of $17 trillion—is a sharp move in a global landscape where technological leadership is fiercely contested. This partnership is as much about securing a place in the digital future as it is about asserting a geopolitical and market presence.
For Canada, a nation known for its innovation ecosystem and robust tech and academic sectors, partnering with the EU offers access to a larger market and broader research opportunities. For the EU, which seeks to strengthen its digital sovereignty and competitiveness, Canada's expertise and resources provide a valuable ally.
One of the most exciting aspects of this partnership is the collaborative research in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Computing, Digital Identity & Trust, Communication Infrastructure and Cybersecurity.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): By working together, Canada and the EU can lead the way in new industrial applications as well as ethical AI development, ensuring that AI technologies and AI Compute infrastructure are optimal for the innovation agenda, and aligned with ethical and societal values. Collaborative research can accelerate advancements, addressing global challenges from healthcare to climate change.
Quantum Computing: This revolutionary technology promises to solve problems that are currently intractable for classical computers. Canada and the EU can jointly develop quantum technologies, sharing expertise and infrastructure to achieve breakthroughs faster and more efficiently.
Digital Identity & Trust: As digital transactions become ubiquitous, ensuring secure and reliable digital identities is paramount. Collaboration can lead to standardized frameworks that protect citizens' privacy, ensure data sovereignty, security, and enhance trust in digital services.
Communication Infrastructure: Building next generation of connectivity solutions, such as 6G next generation networks, satellite, IoTs, and beyond, requires substantial investment and innovation. By partnering, Canada and the EU can share the burden and reap the benefits of improved connectivity, which is foundational to the digital economy.
Cybersecurity: Collaborative research in cybersecurity between Canada and the EU is essential for developing advanced defenses against evolving threats and creating robust, resilient cybersecurity frameworks that safeguard sensitive data, secure critical infrastructure, and protect democratic institutions.
Another key aspect of the Canada-EU Digital Partnership is its alignment with the broader goals of digital and sustainable transitions.
Sustainable AI and Green Technology: The partnership can foster the development of AI and digital technologies that prioritize energy efficiency, reduce carbon footprints, and support sustainability initiatives. For example, AI can optimize energy use in smart grids or enhance precision agriculture, reducing environmental impact while boosting productivity.
Circular Economy and Digital Solutions: Digital technologies can play a pivotal role in advancing the circular economy, where resources are reused and recycled. Canada and the EU can collaborate on digital platforms that track resource use, reduce waste, and support sustainable production practices across industries.
Resilient Infrastructure: Building a resilient, low-carbon digital infrastructure is essential for the sustainable future both regions aspire to. The partnership can lead to shared standards and innovations in green data centers, energy-efficient networks, and sustainable urban planning.
On July 3, 2024 Canada and the European Union signed an agreement welcoming Canada into the Horizon Europe family. This milestone enables Canadian researchers and organizations to collaborate on calls under Pillar II of the program on equal footing with entities from EU Member States, with access to a budget of €52.4 billion for research and innovation. This presents a significant opportunity for Canada's research and innovation ecosystem.
This partnership will help address shared global challenges in areas such as climate, energy, the digital economy, and health, while driving innovation and enhancing productivity. Furthermore, it can help bridge the commercialization gap that often hinders Canadian startups and research initiatives. By aligning with the EU, Canadian companies can scale their business more effectively, gaining access to a market of over 447 million consumers.
The Canada-EU Digital Partnership through Horizon Europe is more than just a policy step—it is a decisive commitment to shaping the future of technology and innovation.
Namir Anani, President and CEO of the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC)