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'India a global leader in innovation': Bill Gates on Gandhi Jayanti; hails contribution to Global South

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Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates on Thursday said Mahatma Gandhi ’s values of equality and dignity for all are key to the work done by the Gates Foundation . He said this while speaking at an event held to mark Gandhi’s 156th birth anniversary in Seattle.

The event was organised by the Consulate General of India in Seattle, along with the Gates Foundation. It included Indian cultural performances, food, and art.

Gates said it was fitting to gather on Gandhi’s birthday. He praised India for being a leader in innovation and said India is creating solutions that can improve lives across the Global South. He also said the Gates Foundation looked forward to continuing its partnership with India on the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

"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," Gates said.

"Today, India stands as a global leader in innovation and is pioneering solutions with the potential to 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 Microsoft co-founder added.


Leaders from Washington State and Seattle City attended the event, which was part of the Gandhi Jayanti and International Day of Non-Violence celebrations.

Across Seattle, several other events were held to honour Gandhi. In the morning, a small function took place at Gandhi’s statue near Bellevue Public Library. City council members from Bellevue attended and paid tribute.

Another event was held at the Seattle Center near the Space Needle. Washington State senator Vandana Slatter and MLK-Gandhi Foundation founder Eddie Rye offered flowers at Gandhi’s statue.

Many Indian-American community leaders joined these events. Children sang Gandhi’s favourite hymns as part of the programmes.

In New York, consul general Binaya Pradhan visited the Gandhi Peace Garden at SUNY Old Westbury. The garden was opened in 2019 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and includes 150 trees representing the 50 US states.

In Washington, DC, the Indian Embassy held a programme with the Indian community. Karuna, director of the Gandhi Memorial Center in Maryland, gave a talk about Gandhi’s life and message.
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