Canada and UK ink 'digital government' agreement
Ministers signed a memorandum of understanding and advanced cooperation on quantum and AI.
Canada and the United Kingdom have signed a cooperation agreement in digital government and the digital economy, while meeting on the margins of a G7 Industry, Digital and Technology Ministers’ Meeting in Montréal.
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada said in a statement that the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, met the Right Honourable Ian Murray, Minister of State (Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Arts) and Minister of State (Minister for Digital Government and Data).
“Digital transformation is helping to build a stronger economy and deliver better services for everyone. Canada is committed to working closely with the United Kingdom as we advance our digital strategies, embrace innovation and ensure technology is adopted safely and responsibly—so every Canadian can benefit from the opportunities of a modern, connected economy,” Evan Solomon said in a statement.
The ministers discussed commercial digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence safety and data policy, and reinforced a joint commitment to develop secure transatlantic communications based on quantum technologies.
The Canadian Space Agency invited eligible respondents to submit an expression of interest for projects to build preparedness for an in-orbit quantum communications demonstration until 12 December, the department said.
The statement linked the bilateral work to the implementation of Canada’s National Quantum Strategy and said the MOU follows commitments made in June by the Right Honourable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, and the Right Honourable Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
“The UK and Canada share a close partnership—particularly when it comes to science, innovation and technology," Ian Murray said.
Murray added: "My visit this week is all about ensuring those bonds deliver for hard-working people—from Calgary to Cowdenbeath and Winnipeg to Winchester. As we continue to work shoulder to shoulder, there’s no limit to the benefits and opportunities we can unlock as we harness the potential of emerging technologies."
The department noted Canada was the first country to introduce a national AI strategy and that, since 2016, the Government of Canada has announced over $4.4 billion to support AI and digital research infrastructure.
It said both countries will continue to collaborate on research, job creation, talent development and responsible AI adoption, and will coordinate on AI safety and security through their respective institutes.
The Recap
- Canada and the UK signed a digital government cooperation memorandum.
- Government announced over $4.4 billion for AI and digital projects.
- Expression of interest open for quantum demonstrator until 12 December.
