23rd Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum – 5G, AI, and Quantum Computing

Sohan Dasgupta elucidated the strategic significance of 5G and its implications for national security, economic prosperity, and the preservation of democratic values. He asserted that 5G will facilitate accelerated data transmission rates, ultra-low latency, and extensive device connectivity, thereby transforming industries such as information technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture. However, he cautioned that due to the critical data transmitted by 5G networks, vulnerabilities within these systems could pose significant national security risks.

Dasgupta raised concerns regarding Chinese technology firms such as Huawei and ZTE, noting that the United States Congress and other government entities have enacted sanctions and regulations, including the Secure Equipment Act of 2021, to restrict the utilization of equipment from companies deemed security threats. He emphasized that 5G will also expedite advancements in Artificial Intelligence, potentially generating trillions of dollars in economic growth. He concluded that safeguarding telecommunications infrastructure, fortifying supply chains, and safeguarding freedom of thought and communication are paramount to sustaining the technological and economic leadership of the free world.