Washington, D.C.: In a powerful endorsement of India’s growing influence on the global stage, American business magnate and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates described India as a “global leader with breakthrough innovations in technology, agriculture, and healthcare.” His remarks were made during the inaugural India Independence Day celebrations held at the newly-opened Indian Consulate in Seattle, marking India’s 78th Independence Day.
Gates, who also serves as the chairman of the Gates Foundation, was the Guest of Honor at the event, which was attended by more than 2,000 members of the Indian-American community. Addressing the crowd, Gates praised India’s significant contributions to the world, stating, “From manufacturing safe, low-cost vaccines to the remarkable leadership shown by the Indian diaspora, to India’s Digital Public Infrastructure, India’s ingenuity is helping not just Indians, but the whole world. Countries across the Global South are leveraging India’s experience to build their DPI systems.”
The India Day celebrations in the Greater Seattle area were a vibrant display of India’s rich cultural heritage, with floats and cultural performances representing the diverse regions and states of India. The theme of “Unity in Diversity” was prominently showcased, reflecting the event’s emphasis on India’s pluralistic society.
Prominent participants at the event included Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, Congressman Adam Smith, Lt. General Xavier Brunson, Commander of America’s First Corps in the Pacific Northwest, Rear Admiral Mark Sucato, Commander of the Navy Region Northwest, Washington Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck, Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, and Chief Justice Steve Gonzalez of the Washington Supreme Court.
The celebrations also featured the issuance of five official proclamations by the governments and city councils of King County, Bellevue City (Washington), Portland (Oregon), Hillsboro (Oregon), and Tigard (Oregon), honoring India’s 78th Independence Day. Additionally, Mark Gordon, the Governor of Wyoming, sent a congratulatory message to mark the occasion. Several iconic buildings in Seattle and Bellevue were illuminated in the colors of the Indian flag, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The event highlighted India’s growing global influence and the strong ties between the Indian and American communities, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. As Gates noted, India’s leadership in critical areas such as digital infrastructure, healthcare, and technology continues to have a transformative impact not just within its borders, but across the world.
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