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Cybersecurity and innovation: a Franco-Quebec dialogue for a trusted digital future
On the occasion of World Telecommunication Day
In a world where digital infrastructures have become essential to economic, social, and democratic life, cybersecurity is no longer just an option—it is a fundamental pillar of innovation. It was in this context that, at MTL connect 2024, a meaningful discussion took place between Frédéric Rebet, Consul General of France in Montreal, and Mehdi Benboubakeur, co-founder and CEO of Printemps numérique. On the occasion of World Telecommunication Day, Printemps numérique looks back at this exchange.
A shared vision: security and digital sovereignty
Frédéric Rebet first emphasized the importance of strengthening Franco-Quebec cooperation in sensitive technological areas. According to him, “cybersecurity is a sine qua non condition for sustainable innovation.” He notes that digital transformation, while inevitable, must be accompanied by a framework of trust, both for citizens and businesses.
“Innovate, yes, but not at the expense of security. France and Quebec share a common will to build an ethical, resilient, and sovereign digital future,” he stated.
This transatlantic cooperation is already evident through university partnerships, technological exchanges, and the sharing of regulatory best practices.
MTL connect: a platform to rethink innovation
Held in Montreal from October 15 to 18, 2024, MTL connect brought together researchers, entrepreneurs, public decision-makers, and creatives around digital issues. The central theme: “Reinventing the world through collective intelligence.” In this context, cybersecurity took a prominent place in conferences and panels.
Workshops explored topics such as personal data protection, the ethics of artificial intelligence, the resilience of critical infrastructures, and cybersecurity applied to education. These discussions revealed a shared observation: to stay at the forefront, innovation must be secured from its very conception.
A responsible digital future
Throughout his intervention, Frédéric Rebet advocated for “digital multilateralism,” where international cooperation becomes a strategic lever. He calls for global digital governance that places security, transparency, and sustainability at the heart of innovation processes.
He also commended the role of young generations and start-ups, which, according to him, “bring a fresh perspective to technological challenges” and must be supported in adopting cybersecurity solutions from the outset.
Conclusion: innovate together, secure together
This edition of MTL connect confirms that technological innovation cannot be conceived without cybersecurity. In an interconnected world, threats know no borders—neither do solutions. Thanks to exchanges like Frédéric Rebet’s, the digital Francophonie affirms its commitment to building a connected, and above all, protected future.
To rewatch the full intervention, the video is available here: MTL connect 2024 – Frédéric Rebet