Hyderabad: Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates praised India’s innovation ecosystem, calling the country a global leader. He said Indian solutions have the power to improve millions of lives across the world.
Gates spoke at a programme in Seattle. The Consulate General of India and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation organised the event to mark Mahatma Gandhi’s 156th birth anniversary.
Gates hails India’s role in global innovation
“India today stands as a global leader in innovation. It delivers solutions that save and improve millions of lives. We look forward to continuing our partnership with India in achieving the goals of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’,” Gates said.
Moreover, he stressed that Gandhi’s ideals of equality and dignity remain central to his foundation’s work. Meanwhile, the event showcased Indian culture, art, and traditional cuisine. Senior officials from Washington State and Seattle City also joined.
In addition, Jonathan Granoff, president of the US Global Security Institute, delivered a keynote on “The relevance of Gandhi’s values in today’s world.”
Earlier in the day, dignitaries paid floral tributes at Gandhi statues in Bellevue Public Library and Seattle Center. Washington State Senator Vandana Slatter placed a wreath. Children from the Indian-American community sang Gandhi’s favourite bhajans, drawing applause from the audience.
According to the Indian Consulate, the large turnout reflected the deep presence and engagement of the diaspora community in Seattle and Bellevue.