China and the UAE: Leading the Quantum Charge
China is making significant and revolutionary strides in quantum computing. In 2020, Chinese scientists introduced the Jiuzhang, a quantum computer that completed a calculation in just 200 seconds, compared to an anticipated 2.5 billion years for a traditional supercomputer. China's dedication to attaining quantum dominance has been demonstrated by this accomplishment. A major milestone for Origin Quantum Computing Technology's Origin Wukong machine, a 72-qubit quantum computer that uses superconducting technology, was also recently reported. Its global effect is demonstrated by the fact that since its cloud availability in January 2024, academics from 139 countries have visited it remotely more than 20 million times.
China has made significant advancements in quantum communication in addition to computation. The founding of a nationwide quantum network that spans thousands of kilometers was made possible by the 2016 launch of the Mozi satellite, and it allowed for long-distance quantum transmission. Chinese scientists worked along Russian scientists to successfully establish quantum communication between Urumqi in China's Xinjiang province and ground stations near Moscow, spanning 3,800 kilometers. This experiment was proof that a quantum communication network across the BRICS+ bloc could be implemented, providing previously unheard-of levels of security against eavesdropping.
As a recent addition to the BRICS bloc, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has also established itself as a pioneer in technical advancement. The UAE has established strategic alliances with international quantum research institutes and has made significant expenditures in secure communication networks, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence. The nation is making significant investments in quantum-secure financial technologies, which are essential for cybersecurity and digital banking in the future. The UAE's desire to play a significant role in quantum developments is reflected in the creation of quantum research facilities in Abu Dhabi.
Russia and Iran: Pioneering Quantum Research and Collaboration
Institutions such as the Russian Quantum Center (RQC) demonstrate Russia's dedication to quantum technologies. One of the major accomplishments of the RQC is the demonstration of quantum key distribution (QKD) for secure communication. Russia's standing in the quantum world has been further strengthened by partnerships with China. In addition to demonstrating scientific superiority, the collaborative quantum communication experiment with China has highlighted the BRICS+ bloc countries' capacity to create a secure quantum communication network that does not depend on Western infrastructures.
Another new member of the BRICS, Iran, has also been developing quantum computing. To improve national security, Iranian researchers have been creating their own cryptography methods and quantum algorithms. To speed up quantum research, Tehran has also looked into joint ventures with China and Russia, notably in the fields of safe financial transactions and military communications.
India and Brazil: Strategic Investments in Quantum Technologies
India has made calculated investments aimed at capitalising on the revolutionary potential of quantum technologies after realising their potential. In order to promote the development of quantum technologies in a variety of fields, including computing, the Indian government established a National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications, providing over $1.12 billion over five years. At the forefront of this research are organisations like the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), which concentrate on quantum computing, communication, and cryptography.
Particularly in the areas of quantum algorithms and cryptography, Brazil's Federal University of Minas Gerais' Quantum Computing Group is making significant strides. Brazil is positioned as a major player in the Global South's quantum landscape thanks to their research, which covers theoretical aspects of quantum computing including error correction and communication protocols.
South Africa and Ethiopia: Emerging Players in Quantum Research
Despite being a latecomer, South Africa is making steady progress in the field of quantum research. Quantum communication, encryption, and information processing are the main areas of study for the University of KwaZulu-Natal's Quantum Research Group. Their work on error correction methods and quantum algorithms is essential to the continent's technological advancement.
Through collaborations with China and India, Ethiopia, another recent addition to the BRICS, has started investing in quantum technologies. With an emphasis on cybersecurity and financial security applications, the Ethiopian government has started projects to incorporate quantum computing into its digital infrastructure.
Practical Implications and Future Outlook
There are various real-world ramifications to the BRICS+ bloc combined efforts in cybersecurity and quantum computing. Secure data transmission is ensured by the development of quantum communication networks, protecting against potential cyberthreats. This is especially important for safeguarding private financial and governmental data. By developing quantum technologies, the BRICS+ countries demonstrate their sovereignty in vital technological areas and lessen their reliance on Western technologies. Investments in quantum technologies have the potential to benefit the general public by fostering the growth of new industries, the creation of jobs, and economic diversification. As BRICS+ countries lead the way in advanced technologies, their geopolitical clout is expected to grow, allowing them to have a greater say in establishing international technology norms and regulations.
Written by
*Dr Iqbal Survé
Past chairman of the BRICS Business Council and co-chairman of the BRICS Media Forum and the BRNN
*Sesona Mdlokovana
Associate at BRICS+ Consulting Group
UAE & African Specialist
**The Views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of Independent Media or IOL.