Seattle, Oct 3 (IANS): Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates praised India for its leadership in innovation, highlighting the country’s solutions that have the potential to impact millions of lives across the Global South. He made the remarks during an event organised by the Indian Consulate General in Seattle in collaboration with the Gates Foundation.
Speaking at the event, Gates said, “It’s fitting that we’re coming together on the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. The ideals he championed—the equality and dignity of every person—are foundational to the work we do. Today, India stands as a global leader in innovation, pioneering solutions that can save and improve millions of lives across the Global South. We look forward to continuing to partner with India on its journey toward Viksit Bharat 2047.”
The event, held at the Gates Foundation on Gandhi Jayanti—the 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi—also showcased Indian culture, arts, and cuisine. Jonathan Granoff, President of the US Global Security Institute, delivered a special address on the “Relevance of Gandhian Values in the Contemporary World Order.” Senior leadership from Washington State and the Seattle City government attended the celebrations.
Earlier in the day, the Indian Consulate General hosted a commemorative event at the Statue of Mahatma Gandhi near Bellevue Public Library, where Bellevue City Council leaders paid tribute to Gandhi’s legacy. Another function at Seattle Center featured floral tributes at Gandhi’s bust, attended by Washington State Senator Vandana Slatter and Martin Luther King–Gandhi Foundation Chairman Eddie Rye.
The events drew a large cross-section of Indian-American leadership and included a special rendition of Gandhi’s favourite hymns performed by school children, according to the Consulate.
