G7 Ministers Gather in Montreal to Discuss AI and Quantum Technologies

Industry, digital, and technology ministers from the G7 nations convene in Montreal this week to discuss pressing issues surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies. This two-day meeting, part of a series of ministerial discussions under Canada’s G7 presidency, aims to foster international cooperation in these rapidly evolving sectors.

As the ministers gather, the focus on AI is expected to dominate the agenda. According to Evan Solomon, Canada’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence, the meeting presents an opportunity to build upon shared values and previous work in these fields. He expressed optimism, stating, “We have a shared series of values building on previous work on AI, on quantum and some key issues,” as he addressed the Canadian Press.

Mark Daley, a professor and chief AI officer at Western University, emphasized the importance of collaboration in an era where technological advancements move at unprecedented speeds. He remarked, “The faster the world moves, the more important cooperation is… This opportunity for digital ministers to focus on AI and its impacts on society is critical for coordination and collaboration.”

While AI is a central theme, the meeting will also encompass broader industrial and technology policy discussions. Melanie Joly, Canada’s Industry Minister, will lead various sessions aimed at addressing economic competitiveness and resilience. Paul Samson, president of the Centre for International Governance Innovation, noted that discussions will likely gravitate towards AI, which he predicts will account for approximately fifty percent of the conversations.

The choice of Montreal as the meeting location highlights Canada’s global strength in AI. The city has established itself as a hub for technological innovation, fostering a vibrant ecosystem that attracts talent and investment. At a prior G7 leaders’ summit in June 2025, member countries committed to enhancing AI adoption, particularly in public sectors and small businesses, while promoting investment in emerging quantum technologies.

The structure of this year’s meetings is somewhat unique. Typically, ministerial discussions precede leaders’ summits, but the order has been reversed due to the timing of Canada’s spring election. This change means that ministers will directly address the issues raised by leaders during their earlier meetings.

The meeting also reflects Canada’s strategic position between the European Union, which advocates for AI regulation, and the United States, which has historically opposed regulatory measures. This dynamic adds complexity to discussions as ministers navigate differing national priorities and regulatory approaches.

Despite differences in opinion regarding AI governance, there seems to be a consensus among G7 countries about the integral role of AI in future development. Heidi Tworek, a professor at the University of British Columbia, highlighted that all G7 nations recognize the significance of embedding AI within public services, a viewpoint that is not universally accepted worldwide.

The G7’s June joint statement on AI committed to accelerating its adoption in public sectors to improve service quality for citizens and businesses alike. While global AI governance challenges are unlikely to be resolved in Montreal, the meeting will serve as a critical forum for understanding the varying approaches of member countries. Daley pointed out the importance of interoperability standards in AI technology, suggesting that Canada can leverage its position as a middle power to influence global standards positively.

As the meeting progresses, the emphasis will be on establishing collaborative frameworks that address the complexities of AI and quantum technology development while also considering economic implications. The outcomes of these discussions could shape international policies that govern technology and innovation for years to come.