Cybersecurity and Innovation: A Franco-Québécois Dialogue for Trusted Digital Technology

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 a meaningful discussion took place at MTL connect 2024 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 reflects on this exchange.

A shared vision: security and digital sovereignty

Frédéric Rebet emphasized from the start the importance of strengthening Franco-Québécois cooperation in sensitive technological fields. According to him, “cybersecurity is a sine qua non condition for sustainable innovation.” He reminded that digital transformation, although 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 expressed through university partnerships, technological exchanges, and the sharing of best regulatory practices.

MTL connect: a platform to rethink innovation

Held in Montreal from October 15 to 18, 2024, MTL connecte brought together researchers, entrepreneurs, public decision-makers, and creatives around digital challenges. The central theme: “Reinventing the world through collective intelligence.” In this spirit, cybersecurity held a prominent place in conferences and panels.

Workshops explored topics such as personal data protection, AI ethics, critical infrastructure resilience, and cybersecurity applied to education. These discussions revealed a shared observation: to stay at the forefront, innovation must be secured from the start.

A responsible digital future

Throughout his intervention, Frédéric Rebet advocated for “digital multilateralism,” where international cooperation becomes a strategic lever. He called for global digital governance that places security, transparency, and sustainability at the heart of innovation processes.

He also praised the role of younger generations and startups who, according to him, bring “a fresh perspective on 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—and neither do solutions. Thanks to exchanges like that of Frédéric Rebet, the digital Francophonie affirms its commitment to building a connected, but above all protected, future.

To watch the full talk (in french), the video is available here: MTL connecte 2024 – Frédéric Rebet