Basque Country launches strategic quantum computing initiative at QCC Forum

Lehendakari Imanol Pradales highlighted the Basque Government's "strategic bet" on quantum technologies during the opening of the Quantum Computational Centers (QCC) Forum in Donostia. He emphasized that advancing quantum computing requires long‑term vision, international collaboration, highly specialized talent and world‑class scientific infrastructure.

The forum, organized by BasQ and hosted at the Gipuzkoa Chamber of Commerce, brought together representatives of the three provincial deputations, the US and Canadian embassies and members of the IBM Quantum Network. The event marked the debut of IBM Quantum System Two – a 156‑qubit processor that is the first of its kind in Europe and the third globally. Participants discussed linking the Basque strategy (BasQ) with major global quantum nodes, exploring joint projects such as using the quantum computer to develop new Alzheimer’s drugs, and expanding the region’s role as an international quantum‑computing hub.