German chancellor Angela Merkel announced this week that the government would fund a 2 billion euro innovation program for quantum technology, including investing in two quantum computers, according to the AP.
The announcement was part of a 130-billion euro stimulus plan that is designed to tackle future challenges and recover from the economic repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic.
The chancellor recognized the importance of quantum computing in her statement, calling it the “next fundamental digital leap in technology.”
“Since other countries are pioneers in the field of hardware and software in classic computer technology, it is our goal that Germany should be at the top of the world in terms of economics and technology in key areas of quantum technology, especially quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensor technology and quantum cryptography,” she said in the address.
“It is our goal that Germany should be at the top of the world in terms of economics and technology in key areas of quantum technology, especially quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensor technology and quantum cryptography.”
The country will employ its considerable research and development resources to join this revolution, Merkel added.
“Therefore, we will promote the development and production of quantum technologies in Germany and use them to build a new industrial pillar in terms of both hardware and software,” Merkel said. “We rely on the close connection of excellence in research with the transfer to product development, on substantial funding for startups, and on joint new top clusters from science and industry.”
According to Merkel, the first step will be the immediate commission the construction of at least two quantum computers to a consortium.
In addition to quantum computers, 50 billion euros alone would go toward boosting the use of other technologies, such as hydrogen as a clean alternative to fossil fuels, encouraging the purchase of electric vehicles, equipping schools with IT devices, according to Merkel.
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