Closing Session
The idea of a quantum internet has moved from science fiction into serious research agendas. By harnessing quantum mechanics, it promises a future of secure communications, distributed quantum computing, and entirely new applications we can barely imagine today. If the ambition is achieved, the quantum internet will not be just another 'G' upgrade. Rather, it represents a paradigm shift in how information is secured, shared, and processed. For telcos, policymakers, and innovators, the stakes are enormous: miss this wave and risk irrelevance; seize it and help shape the backbone of the next digital era.
• Is the quantum internet a genuine revolution, or just another overhyped research project chasing funding?
• If quantum communications are “un-hackable”, who decides who gets access? Governments, telcos, or hyper-scalers?
• Should telcos lead the quantum backbone, or are they destined to be sidelined again by hyper-scalers?
Lory is an executive technology leader and board advisor with 20+ years of global experience driving digital transformation, technology innovation, ecosystem partnerships and go to market across telecommunications and regulated industries. She has a background in engineering and cybersecurity, with in-depth expertise in connectivity technologies, IoT and data analytics applied across industry sectors. She is a Strategy Advisor within the IBM Quantum Safe team, a Senior Quantum Ambassador and Chair of the GSMA Post Quantum Telco Network Task Force, the first sector specific forum focused on preparation and implementation of post quantum cryptography for the telecommunication sector.
Lory is passionate about driving the use of technology for positive societal impact and is an advocate for increasing women’s representation in STEM.
Jouni Flyktman is Vice President for Defense and Security at IQM Quantum Computers, where he leads the company’s engagement with international defense and security stakeholders. He has overseen customer deployments globally, entries to new markets, and quantum R&D projects, including Finland’s first quantum computers.
Prior to joining IQM, Jouni served for 20 years in the Finnish Defense Forces, advancing cyber defense, driving the development of next-generation defense capabilities, and contributing to strategic and operational planning.
He holds degrees in Engineering Physics (M.Sc.), Economics (M.Sc.), and an Executive MBA, as well as a General Staff Officer qualification, combining technical, defense, and business expertise to shape the future of quantum technologies.
