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Telefónica Tech and IBM sign a collaboration agreement for quantum-safe technology

  • Telefónica Tech to integrate IBM quantum safe technology into its cybersecurity services to create specific use cases aimed at addressing new and future risks associated with the advancement of cryptographically relevant quantum computers.
  • The agreement includes deployment of IBM’s quantum-safe technology infrastructure at Telefónica Tech’s headquarters in Madrid (Spain) to promote business development aimed at cyber resiliency and agility against vulnerabilities arising from the development of future cryptographically relevant quantum computers.

MADRID, Jan. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Telefónica Tech, the digital business unit of the Spanish telecommunications group Telefónica, and IBM (NYSE: IBM), a pioneer in quantum-safe cryptography, today announced a collaboration agreement to develop and deliver security solutions that address security challenges posed by future cryptographically relevant quantum computers.

Raquel Ruiz Lozano (left), Global Head of Strategic Partnerships for Telefónica Tech; and Adolfo Hernández Pulido, Tecnology Managing Director for Telefónica at IBM, at Telefonica’s headquarters in Madrid (Spain).
Raquel Ruiz Lozano (left), Global Head of Strategic Partnerships for Telefónica Tech; and Adolfo Hernández Pulido, Tecnology Managing Director for Telefónica at IBM, at Telefonica’s headquarters in Madrid (Spain).

The advent of quantum computing will allow for more advanced calculations, but it also brings with it a critical challenge: ensuring data security in a future where traditional encryption algorithms could become vulnerable. Additionally, while a cryptographically relevant quantum computer is not yet available, data may already be vulnerable to harvesting by cybercriminals for future decryption. 

IBM has developed quantum safe-focused enterprise software and research-driven assets for a holistic solution to anticipated quantum risks. IBM Guardium Quantum Safe, part of the broader IBM Guardium Data Security Center, helps organizations gain visibility and manage cryptography to address vulnerabilities, guide prioritization and remediation, and improve security posture. It also includes IBM Guardium Key Lifecycle Manager, which provides centralized, secured, and scalable encryption key management. 

Complementing these are IBM Quantum Safe Explorer and IBM Quantum Safe Remediator, technology assets for discovering cryptographic vulnerabilities in code, testing quantum safe algorithm performance, and establishing quantum safe proxies. 

Pursuant to this agreement, the two companies will work together to combine IBM’s quantum-safe technology with Telefónica Tech’s experience in providing managed and professional cybersecurity services with the aim to create solutions that provide security to companies and public administrations against the new and future security risks of a post-quantum world.

The solutions being discussed will be specifically designed to help protect organizations’ critical data from the risk of being decrypted by quantum computers by implementing new quantum-safe cryptography standards defined by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). IBM has co-developed two of the three algorithms that have been published as post-quantum cryptography standards, contributing to data protection in the quantum era.

Raquel Ruiz Lozano, Global Head of Strategic Partnerships for Telefónica Tech, states: “Quantum computing offers incredible opportunities, but it could also pose a significant challenge in terms of cybersecurity. This collaboration agreement with IBM allows us to continue to help address the potential risks of the post-quantum world, thanks to its IBM’s quantum safe technology, and to offer our clients solutions to help protect their critical data and face this transformation with security and confidence.”

Adolfo Hernández Pulido, Technology Managing Director for Telefónica at IBM, highlights: “It is critical for organizations to begin evaluating their cryptography and planning a transition to quantum-safe standards. At IBM, we are proud not only to have had a hand in the development of new post-quantum cryptography algorithms, but also to be leading the way with new quantum-safe technologies and services. We are thrilled to sign this collaboration agreement with Telefónica Tech focused on quantum safe technology.”

The prospective integration of IBM’s quantum-safe technologies into Telefónica Tech’s portfolio of services is being engineered to enhance the proactive risk assessments capable of being carried out by Telefónica Tech’s operations professionals with the aim of helping organizations identify and address cryptography vulnerabilities in their infrastructures.

Concordant with this agreement, Telefónica Tech would also assist organizations in their transition to new cryptographic standards, protocols or algorithms to ensure resilience and agility against cybersecurity risks posed by quantum computing, and the transition to new quantum-safe encryption technologies.

The agreement also contemplates the creation of a joint use case office, focused on key areas such as communications encryption, adaptation to new secure algorithms, and the protection of critical environments.

In this context, IBM’s infrastructure has already been deployed at Telefónica’s headquarters, located in Distrito Telefónica (Madrid, Spain), to promote business development. This infrastructure is composed of elements specifically designed to promote a secure and resilient environment against the threats of the post-quantum world.

These include an IBM LinuxONE system, which is secured with end-to-end encryption including new quantum-safe cryptography; IBM Storage technology; and other advanced tools for protecting master and operational keys.

About Telefónica Tech
Telefónica Tech is the leading company in digital transformation. The company offers a wide range of services and integrated technological solutions for Cyber Security, Cloud, IoT, Big Data, AI and Blockchain. For more information, please visit: https://telefonicatech.com/en

About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud, artificial intelligence, and consulting expertise. We help clients in over 175 countries harness insights from their data, optimize business processes, reduce costs and gain a competitive advantage in their industries. More than 4,000 government and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on the IBM hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to achieve their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting offer open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, accountability, inclusion and service. Visit www.ibm.com for more information.

Contact:

IBM
Willa Hahn
Willa.Hahn@ibm.com 

Telefónica, S.A.
Dirección de Comunicación Corporativa
email: prensatelefonica@telefonica.com
telefonica.com/es/sala-comunicacion 

Khammouane Sets Sights on Tourism Boom in 2025 with New Attractions, Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Kong Lor Cave in Khammouane (Photo: Mimi Oulayvanh Sisounonth)

As 2025 kicks off, Khammouane Province is setting its sights on boosting tourism and drawing in more visitors this year.

Lao Child, Youth Development Association Officially Approved to Drive Child Rights, Child Protection, Youth Empowerment Programs Nationwide

Lao Child, Youth Development Association Officially Approved to Drive Child Rights, Child Protection, Youth Empowerment Programs Nationwide
Lao Child, Youth Development Association Officially Approved to Drive Child Rights, Child Protection, Youth Empowerment Programs Nationwide

The Lao Child and Youth Development Association (LaoCYDA) has been officially established in Laos. 

With the approval by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and all key ministries, this step marks a significant milestone toward advancing child rights, child protection, and youth empowerment across the country. 

As a locally-led civil society organization, LaoCYDA is now fully eligible to implement development programs nationwide, partnering with key government ministries, donors, and international stakeholders to create a lasting impact for children and youth.

“We are honored to have received official approval and support from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and all key ministries involved in national development. This empowers LaoCYDA to operate nationwide, advancing our mission to protect and uplift the children and youth of Laos,” stated Somkiao Kingsada, Board Chair of LaoCYDA.

LaoCYDA will work in close collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Lao Youth Union, and Lao Women’s Union to ensure that its programs align with Laos’ National Youth and Adolescent Development Strategy and the country’s Sustainable Development Goals.

The organization is committed to strengthening child rights and child protection frameworks across the country, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment. LaoCYDA’s key focus areas include education, health, climate action, youth empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods, working to equip children and youth with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.

In Laos, efforts are focused on ensuring the safety, well-being, and rights of every child. Key priorities include improving access to quality education, especially in remote areas, and promoting mental, sexual, and emotional health for youth. Programs engage young people in addressing climate change and developing leadership, job readiness, and life skills through community-based initiatives. Support is also provided to foster sustainable livelihoods through agricultural innovation and climate-resilient practices.

LaoCYDA also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnership. As a newly formed organization, it looks forward to working hand-in-hand with government ministries, donors, United Nations agencies, international NGOs, local communities, and all development partners to create transformative and impactful programs for the children and youth of Laos.

LaoCYDA extends special thanks to the Lao Civil Society Organization Secretariat and its leadership for their generous support and provision of office space during this crucial period of establishment. This support enables LaoCYDA to hit the ground running and contribute to national and community development efforts.

“We are ready to collaborate and partner with all stakeholders to build a brighter future for Lao children and youth. With our official approval and nationwide eligibility, LaoCYDA is inspired and motivated to make a significant impact in 2025 and beyond,” said Vilasai Thammavong, Founder and Director of LaoCYDA.

For partnership inquiries or more information, please contact LaoCYDA through our social media platforms or via email at laocyda.info@gmail.com 

 

THE ROYAL CANADIAN MINT LAUNCHES ITS BIGGEST-EVER 99.99% PURE SILVER MAPLE LEAF COIN

Weighing an impressive 10 kilos, the “Big Silver Maple Leaf” is an unforgettable tribute to one of the investment market’s most popular silver bullion coins

BERLIN, Jan. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Royal Canadian Mint has crafted an outsized numismatic tribute to its iconic Silver Maple Leaf (SML) bullion coin with a 10 kilo version, struck in exquisite detail and precision at the Mint’s Ottawa facility. The Big Silver Maple Leaf is the biggest 99.99% pure silver coin of its kind, both in terms of weight and diameter. It also features all the signature elements that make the SML one of the world’s most sought-after silver bullion coins. This rare and imposing showpiece was unveiled today at the 2025 World Money Fair in Berlin, Germany, home to the world’s premier gathering of the global minting industry.

“The Royal Canadian Mint’s Silver Maple Leaf bullion has long dominated the precious metals market because it sets the benchmark for purity, security and manufacturing excellence,” said Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. “I am very proud to see those qualities amplified in our new 10 kilo, 99.99% pure Big Silver Maple Leaf that is yet another shining example of the talent and innovation of the people behind the one of the world’s favourite silver bullion coins.”

Struck in a customized 2,500-ton hydraulic press, the 99.99% pure 10 kilo Big Silver Maple Leaf meticulously captures every detail of the 1 oz. silver bullion coin it honours and celebrates. Its maple leaf-shaped security mark, the dazzling array of radial lines filling the reverse and obverse of the coin, and the trademark Walter Ott-designed sugar maple leaf shining from the coin’s centre in (natural) finish are magnified in stunning scale and precision. The obverse of the coin features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III created by Canadian artist Steven Rosati.

Priced at $24,999.95 CAD each, only 299 of these made-in-Canada masterpieces are available to collectors of rare and exclusive coins. Customers interested in this product should contact the Mint directly at 1-800-267-1871 in Canada or 1-800-268-6468 in the US.

Coin images are available here.

About the Royal Canadian Mint
The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada’s circulation coins. The Mint is one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, producing award-winning collector coins, market-leading bullion products, as well as Canada’s prestigious military and civilian honours.

As an established London and COMEX Good Delivery refiner, the Mint also offers a full spectrum of best-in-class gold and silver refining services. As an organization that strives to take better care of the environment, to cultivate safe and inclusive workplaces and to make a positive impact on the communities where it operates, the Mint integrates environmental, social and governance practices in every aspect of its operations.

For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit www.mint.ca. Follow the Mint on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Tanu Vannasin: From School Competitions to Laos’ National Music Stage

Tanu Vannasin: From School Competitions to Laos' National Music Stage
Tanu performing on the stage (Photo credit: Tanuvannasin)

Tanu has been singing his whole life. Born and raised in Vientiane, this popular Lao singer-songwriter started performing as a child and never stopped. From school competitions to late-night gigs, music has always been a part of his life. 

Now, after years of honing his craft, he’s become one of the most recognizable voices in Laos’s indie music scene.

“I never expected to come this far—to be well-known or make a living from music,” said the 27-year-old artist. 

Genuine passion can sometimes lead to success beyond one’s imagination, or at least, it is what Tanu has proven. 

“I started singing when I was in sixth grade and always participated in school competitions,” Tanu recalls. “By the time I was in tenth grade, I had already begun performing as a night singer, and I’ve continued ever since.”

His soaring popularity has granted him a stage at the National Cultural Hall on 15 February, where “The Song Beyond Borders” is set to take place, celebrating 70 years of Laos-Japan diplomatic relations

There, the young artist would share the stage with “Krage”, a Japanese hip hop singer, in a night of musical exchange.

For Tanu, this moment is not just about performing but it’s a milestone in a journey that began when he was just a schoolboy with a dream.

Music has always been a part of his life. From competing in school events to singing in bars at night, Tanu’s voice became his identity. But as he grew as a performer, he felt the urge to create something of his own. That’s when he started writing his own songs.

Not Just One Sound

Today, after years of practice, Tanu enjoys experimenting with different styles. In his early years, he focused on creating songs that would appeal to a wide audience. But as he grew as an artist, his approach shifted.

“My music style isn’t fixed—I experiment with different genres,” he said.

His earlier songs, for instance Tear and Pure, were composed with listeners in mind. But in recent years, he has focused on making music that reflects his personal taste, even if it’s less commercially successful. Now, he hopes to find a balance between both approaches.

A Rainy Breakthrough 

While Tanu’s first composition, Only Tears Remain, was released in 2019, it was “ Fon“ (Rain),  which was released in 2022 that truly put him on the map.

“One of my most well-known songs is ຝົນ (Fon). I was really happy to see it become popular,” he shares.

Originally, Rain was supposed to be his third release, but delays—including a key collaborator being out of the country—pushed it back. Looking back, he believes that waiting allowed the song to reach its full potential.

A Milestone: His latest Solo Concert

Tanu’s solo concert in November 2024 was a defining moment in his career. Unlike his previous performances as an invited artist to perform with other artists, but this time he was involved in every aspect of the production.

“My solo concert in November 2024 was a huge challenge. We had to manage everything ourselves—from designing the event concept to organizing the entire show.”

From conceptualizing the event to securing sponsors, every detail required careful planning. He and his team wanted to create something fresh for the audience—something rarely seen in Laos’ music industry.

The overwhelming response to the concert proved that Lao audiences are eager to support local artists when presented with something authentic and meaningful.

However, breaking into the Lao music industry comes with its own challenges, especially when local artists compete with the influence of foreign music.

“The music industry in our country is very small,” Tanu admitted.

“There’s a belief that Lao people overlook local artists, so we wanted to see how they would respond to our concert. The turnout was overwhelming, proving that there is strong support for Lao musicians.”

Advice for Aspiring Artists

For those hoping to enter the music industry, Tanu emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process.

“It doesn’t hurt to try. Many people set high expectations for their work, but it’s also important to enjoy the small moments along the way,” he advised.

“Music should be fun. If you truly love making music, it will reward you in unexpected ways”.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Tanu’s Music

Though music has been a major part of his life, Tanu is considering stepping away from the industry in the near future.

“In the next five years, I plan to step back from the music industry in Laos,” he revealed.

While he still enjoys performing, he admits that the demands of the industry can be exhausting.

“But I will probably continue performing at night venues since that’s my main source of income. In five years ahead, I don’t have any definite plans, I may work behind the artist’s performance or production rather than doing it by myself,” he added.

Despite the uncertainties ahead, one thing remains clear, music will always be part of Tanu’s life. Whether he’s on stage, writing behind the scenes, or simply playing for himself. His journey with music isn’t over. 

The Freedom International Group, an investment company focusing on technology, finance, health & wellness, saw its client base grow to 2.2 million in 2024, marking an 8% increase compared to 2024.

VIENNA, Jan. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — President & CEO Narek Sirakanyan gave a boost to the development of the group, introducing the new product qTest, opening new offices in Dubai and Bien Hoa (Vietnam) and promoting a more aggressive marketing strategy.

Founded in 2014 by Narek Sirakanyan, the Freedom International Group is a diversified investment business whose value, in terms of assets, exceeds 2.5 billion euros. The group positions itself strategically in terms of building a system for managing many businesses, and growing unicorns. Freedom International Group's ecosystem spans 19 countries, including the U.S., Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, and several states in Europe.  The investment portfolio consists of 50 projects, of which 12 have already hit the market.
Founded in 2014 by Narek Sirakanyan, the Freedom International Group is a diversified investment business whose value, in terms of assets, exceeds 2.5 billion euros. The group positions itself strategically in terms of building a system for managing many businesses, and growing unicorns. Freedom International Group’s ecosystem spans 19 countries, including the U.S., Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, and several states in Europe.  The investment portfolio consists of 50 projects, of which 12 have already hit the market.

Narek Sirakanyan comments: ‘The year 2024 marked our tenth anniversary. Now we are ready for a quantum leap targeting an IPO in 2029. I personally believe we must continue looking for projects characterized by innovation, scalability and social relevance.  Our footprint now includes 19 countries and this year we’ll open two more. We are ready to launch Firstline, our new app for the Horeca sector which complements our High-Tech area.”

2024 Facts & Figures

The leading business on the group is Project V, focused on nutraceuticals for health, wellness and beauty. “Project V totaled a record revenue level of 130 million USD” said Sirakanyan, “and by the end of 2025 we target to reach 150 million USD in revenues. The Project V business was enriched in fall by the introduction of GH, a drinking complex in ampoules based on 6-year-old white imperial Ginseng. Now Project V offers 80 products and by the end of 2025 this number will grow to 100.”

The Coffeecell business grew by 15% to 8,5 million USD and the plans for 2025 are to top the 10 million USD threshold. Two new products based on imperial Ginseng were introduced in 2024, G Black and G Legend.

On May 10, President & CEO Narek Sirakanyan presented the qTest, a world premiere, together with professor Torello Lotti, a renowned academician, who developed it. This system responds to an oxidation-reduction chemical reaction, or redox (short for reduction-oxidation), which is crossed with the level of saliva pH to determine the unique position of everyone taking the test.

QTest is now being exported to all main FIG markets.

Outlook for 2025

The goal is to position Project V in the fashion world as a “secret” source of health and energy for models’ backstage at fashion shows. A first step in this direction will be the partnership with the Monte-Carlo Fashion Week, the official fashion event of the Principality of Monaco.

Concerning the High-Tech line, Freedom plans to introduce the Firstline app in the first quarter of 2025. “Firstline is a digital space where each business competes for existing and potential clients.” Says Sirakanyan: “Firstline directly attracts its clients, returning money to them for the purchases and recommendations. Nothing to pay upfront to marketing agencies and other intermediaries. We plan to invest 3 million USD in marketing this year to launch the app and to reach a turnover of 15 million USD by the end of 2025.”

This year the group plans to open two more office, in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) and Milan (Italy).

www.freedomgroupint.com

 

Laos Reports 46 Human Trafficking Cases in 2024, 95 Arrested.

Laos Reports 46 Human Trafficking Cases in 2024, 95 Arrested.
Laos Reports 46 Human Trafficking Cases in 2024, 95 Arrested.

Laos recorded 46 cases of human trafficking in 2024, leading to the arrest of 95 individuals, including 43 foreign nationals, according to Deputy Minister of Public Security Khamking Phouilamanivong.  

Speaking at the National Anti-Trafficking Committee meeting on 24 January, Khamking reported that 85 individuals fell victim to trafficking, with 40 of them being underaged women.

The official noted that many of these cases involved brokers and criminal networks deceiving Lao women into dangerous and illegal activities, often linked to cyber-scam operations run from call centers. In some instances, minors were coerced into illegal marriages with foreign nationals.

The majority of trafficking cases occur in Special Economic Zones (SEZs), particularly the Golden Triangle SEZ, where criminal groups exploit weak regulations and law enforcement challenges.  

To address the issue, Laos has strengthened legislation, published manuals, and organized training programs and seminars to raise awareness and help citizens recognize and avoid human trafficking schemes.  

In one recent case, on 13 January, Immigration Police at Wattay International Airport intercepted five Lao women suspected of being trafficking victims. Following an investigation by the Police Department for Prevention and Combating Human Trafficking, three were identified as victims, while two were suspected brokers. Authorities are now working to dismantle the trafficking network and hold those responsible accountable.  

The United States Department of State currently classifies Laos as a Tier 2 Watch List country in its annual report on human trafficking.

2025 VivaTech Confidence Barometer: Tech and business in the USA are confident while Europe moves at different speeds

Announcing the second edition of the VivaTech Confidence Barometer, an international survey of tech executives conducted by OpinionWay in Europe (France, Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy) and North America (USA, Canada)

PARIS, Jan. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Technological progress is seen as increasingly strategic by companies, and as a priority area of investment for senior executives. There is a marked divergence of opinions among respondents, with Americans perceiving themselves as more competitive than their counterparts in Europe.

2025 VivaTech Confidence Barometer: Tech and business in the USA are confident while Europe moves at different speeds
2025 VivaTech Confidence Barometer: Tech and business in the USA are confident while Europe moves at different speeds

AI, a Challenge Accepted by Businesses Everywhere

100% of executives believe that the adoption of at least one new technology generates tangible benefits for their company, such as increased productivity (62%) and reduced operational costs (48%).

Unsurprisingly, AI clearly stands out as the technology most likely to have an impact on the companies’ business (65%), well ahead of cybersecurity (41%) and cloud computing (39%).

Over the next 12 months, 85% of the companies surveyed plan to increase their investment in AI.

Differing Perceptions of Competitiveness in the International Arena

The United States and the United Kingdom are the most confident about the ability of their tech sectors to compete internationally, with 92% and 81% of CEOs respectively believing their country to be at the forefront, unlike Italy, which feels less confident (64%).

Executives were also asked about the adoption of technological innovations by their countries. Here, too, executives in the USA and the United Kingdom feel their countries are leading the way, with 87% and 82% respectively believing their companies are at the forefront of the adoption of technological innovations. This contrasts with Italy, where executives again see their country as lagging behind (44%).  

Technological Progress: Source of Concern, Source of Solutions

Three quarters (77%) are equally concerned about the invasion of privacy and the proliferation of fake news and the difficulty of identifying it.

The negative impact of tech on the environment is also a concern for 70% of business leaders among which, unicorns, startups and scaleups are more concerned with 47% saying they are very concerned about this issue.

But while technology carries its share of uncertainties and risks, it is also seen by more than 9 out of 10 business leaders (90%) as a solution to the major challenges of our time.

Contact: vivatech@publicisconsultants.com