The Asia Visionary Summit opened in Paro today, bringing together hundreds of innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders from Bhutan and abroad to explore how technology and economic growth can go hand in hand with human values and environmental sustainability.Over the next two days, more than 30 speakers will share ideas on the theme, “Enlightened Prosperity”.
The summit opened with discussions on three key themes: the inner frontier, the age of intelligence and the living earth. Discussions focused on how society can adapt to rapid technological change, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), while preserving human consciousness and the environment.
Beyond discussions, the organisers say the summit aims to build lasting partnerships and create investment opportunities.
Teruhide Sato, Advisor, Asia Visionary Summit, said he hopes the gathering will grow beyond an annual event and build a community based on shared values and trust.
“I hope this will become more than an annual gathering. I hope it will build a community based on shared values and trust, connecting different perspectives, cultures and generations. A community where people not only exchange ideas but also build something meaningful together,” he said.
The two-day summit has brought together hundreds of innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders from Bhutan and abroad. For participants, it is an opportunity to exchange ideas, build networks and connect with potential investors.
Alex Odajima, CEO of Edge of Innovation, LLC, said the discussions highlighted the importance of looking beyond financial gains and thinking differently to achieve different goals.
“The discussions this morning were very interesting. They highlighted what matters beyond just money and how thinking differently can help us achieve different goals. By listening to more discussions and meeting people here, I hope to develop better ideas about what startups could come to Bhutan, what they could do here and what opportunities they could expect,” he said.
Jigme Namgyal, CEO of Jaggle AI Private Limited, said the summit offers an opportunity to connect with international participants, investors and business delegates.
“As a founder, this is a great opportunity for me. There are many international participants, investors and business delegates here. I am looking forward to connecting with them. I think this is also a great opportunity for Bhutan to build networks,” he said.
The summit is also expected to open new opportunities for young Bhutanese innovators and entrepreneurs as the country works towards diversifying its economy.
Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay called on international participants to support young Bhutanese in pursuing their ambitions at home.
“Our young people are ready to lead. I invite you to join them. Help us build an economy in which young Bhutanese can pursue their ambitions here in Bhutan, not because they are asked to stay, but because they choose to. That, for Bhutan, would be enlightened prosperity,” he said.
Tomorrow, discussions will continue on building society, artificial intelligence and mindfulness, among other topics.
As Bhutan advances its vision for Gelephu Mindfulness City, the summit provides a platform to explore how technology, investment and economic progress can be balanced with mindfulness and human values.
Karma Samten Wangda and Singye Dema, Paro
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
