On February 15, 2023, the United States and the Netherlands signed a Joint Statement on Cooperation in Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST) in The Hague. The statement underscores robust bilateral ties in emerging technologies. It also builds upon a strong history of friendship between the two nations that dates to the American Revolution and is based on a common dedication to individual freedom, democratic principles, human rights, and free trade.
Shefali Razdan Duggal, U.S. Ambassador to the Netherlands, signed the joint statement for the United States. “We are thrilled to join forces with the Netherlands on quantum sciences and we are genuinely hopeful that this collaboration will be an influential opportunity to learn and expand,” said Ambassador Razdan Duggal. “I am personally very excited about this cutting-edge endeavor. Working together, with a focus on our shared values, will certainly guide us in developing a host of applications which provide real benefits to everyone.”
Guido Biessen, Director-General of Enterprise and Innovation at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, signed the joint statement for the Netherlands. “As quantum technology gradually matures, we need the brightest people to deliver the next R&D milestones,” said Biessen. “Building on our 400-year history of collaboration with the United States, we are looking forward to strengthening the ties between R&D experts in this field, connecting eco-systems, and building bridges for trans-Atlantic policy dialogue between the United States and the Netherlands.”
QIST, which includes devices such as quantum computers, quantum networks, and quantum sensors, could enable capabilities beyond the reach of traditional devices with potential benefits in areas as wide ranging as climate, energy, healthcare, and data security. The United States and the Netherlands have each launched national initiatives to accelerate QIST through their respective National Quantum Initiative and Quantum Delta NL programs. The countries are also founding members of the Entanglement Exchange, a portal for exchange opportunities in QIST with nations guided by shared values.
The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) National Quantum Coordination Office (NQCO) joined the signing virtually. Dr. Charles Tahan, Assistant Director for Quantum Information Science at OSTP, and Director of the NQCO, said, “The quantum cooperation statement signed today is a key step in the United States and the Netherlands working together to accelerate QIST and establish a trusted network of talent and innovation for this critical emerging technology.”