Event Recap: Asia Society Seattle Launch Celebration

Asia Society Seattle celebrated its momentous launch on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. Bill Gates, Kevin Rudd, Gary Rieschel, Danny Russel, and Lingling Wei had a fascinating discussion about technology, U.S.-China relations, Asia, global health, and the important role Asia Society Seattle will play in the Pacific Northwest region and globally. Our all-star speaker lineup also included Tom Robertson, Robert Blair, Yasufumi Nakamori, Catherine Roche, Ping Foong, and Margaret Conley. The festivities closed with a mesmerizing performance by opera singer Hao Jiang Tian.

Over 200 guests from the business and local community, and leadership from Asia Society New York, Northern California, and Southern California gathered at the Seattle Asian Art Museum to commemorate the launch of Asia Society’s 16th Center and our collective vision of navigating shared futures with Asia in the Pacific Northwest.

Stay tuned for more videos and photos to come.

Asia Society Seattle Launch Celebration Videos

Watch highlights from Asia Society Seattle Launch Celebration

Remarks by Microsoft’s Tom Robertson & Live Demo on Generative AI by Rob Blair

Tom Robertson, Corporate Vice President and General Counsel at Microsoft Corporation, congratulated the establishment of Asia Society Seattle, which will be a significant contributor to Asia Society centers around the world and to the Pacific Northwest. He reviewed Microsoft’s long history and ties with Asia and stressed the importance of understanding and engaging with Asia, stating that Microsoft was very proud to be a foundational sponsor of Asia Society Seattle.

Rob Blair, Senior Director of National Security and Emerging Technology at Microsoft Corporation, then presented a live demonstration on generative AI. By showcasing generative AI's role in disease prevention and advanced material production, he illustrated how it can lower expenses, enhance productivity, boost innovation, and ultimately benefit humanity. Rob Blair also demonstrated how generative AI can support Asia Society’s missions, particularly in the areas of policy analysis, arts and culture, and sustainability.