Italian and Canadian research bodies formalized increasing quantum cooperation yesterday, September 1, with the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding at the Italian Cultural Institute in Toronto. The agreements link the National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), the National Research Council (CNR), and the Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA) with the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, and Perimeter Institute for collaborative research and exchange programs.
This builds on a framework agreement signed in Rome in September 2025 between INFN and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, according to INFN president Antonio Zoccoli, who stated, “We believe that Canada and its research institutions are strategic partners for advancing theoretical physics and quantum technologies.”
Italian-Canadian MoUs Advance Quantum Science Collaboration
The foundation for increasing quantum collaboration between Italy and Canada was laid in March 2025 with a strategic mission by Italian scientists to leading Canadian research institutions. These agreements establish concrete pathways for researcher and student exchanges, joint project development, and crucial infrastructure sharing.
A second agreement connects those same Italian bodies with the University of Waterloo’s Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) and the Perimeter Institute, prioritizing quantum technologies and nanodevice research. Antonio Zoccoli, president of INFN, explained that “These agreements were made possible by a series of productive meetings we held last year during our visit to Canada,” emphasizing the importance of direct engagement in fostering these partnerships.
Elissa Golberg, ambassador of Canada to Italy, warmly welcomed the MoUs, stating, “Investing in science and innovation means investing in the future, and we are pleased to see the excellence of our two countries working together to develop knowledge and technologies that will benefit our citizens and have a global impact.” Alessandro Cattaneo, ambassador of Italy to Canada, further highlighted the strategic importance of this collaboration, noting that “Quantum technologies represent one of the most promising scientific and technological frontiers of the 21st century,” and emphasizing the need for international cooperation to leverage expertise and accelerate innovation in a competitive global landscape. The agreements align with the Italy-Canada Roadmap for Enhanced Cooperation, signaling a commitment to a long-lasting, mutually beneficial partnership in quantum science.
Quantum technologies represent one of the most promising scientific and technological frontiers of the 21st century.
Alessandro Cattaneo, ambassador of Italy to Canada
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