25th Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum – Technology and Innovation: 5G, Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing

Honorable Cristian Bacanu, representing Romania, underscored that the free world, despite its moral and economic superiority, confronts significant threats from authoritarian states such as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. He emphasized that technology lacks an inherent moral compass and can be employed for both positive and negative purposes. These states are actively utilizing cyber operations, 5G technology, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing to challenge democratic institutions. Bacanu highlighted Romania’s proactive measures, including prohibiting the deployment of risky foreign technology such as Huawei from critical infrastructure and developing secure networks in collaboration with Western allies. He delved into the strategic implications of emerging technologies, noting how artificial intelligence and quantum computing could fundamentally transform warfare, international relations, and society as a whole. Bacanu cautioned against two critical scenarios: rogue states emerging victorious in the quantum computing race or quantum AI acquiring uncontrollable influence over global systems. He concluded that the responsibility to regulate and safeguard these technologies lies with contemporary leaders, not future generations, and urged collective action among like-minded nations to preserve democracy, security, and liberty.