At the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu had a packed schedule, highlighting the state’s potential for global investment. On day three, he met with key industry leaders, including Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, to discuss collaborative opportunities.

One of the major topics of discussion with Bill Gates centered on transforming Andhra Pradesh into a global hub for health, education, and innovation. Naidu proposed the creation of a Centre of Excellence for Health Innovation and Diagnostics in the state to offer advanced healthcare solutions. He also invited Gates to be part of the advisory board for an Artificial Intelligence (AI) University in Andhra Pradesh, which aims to make the state a leader in AI research.

Naidu expressed a keen interest in implementing successful initiatives from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) in Andhra Pradesh, such as health dashboards and social programs, to tackle local challenges with global solutions. He assured Gates that Andhra Pradesh could act as a gateway for BMGF’s initiatives across South India, expanding its reach and impact.

Quote from Naidu:
“It was a pleasure meeting Bill Gates again after many years. We discussed opportunities to collaborate in health and AI innovation. I look forward to the BMGF partnership in advancing Andhra Pradesh’s progress,” he said.

Additional Meetings and Proposals

• With Google CEO Thomas Kurian: Discussed setting up a design center in Visakhapatnam to develop server chips, as well as a manufacturing unit to strengthen Google’s server supply chain in Andhra Pradesh. The CM also emphasized the state’s potential as a global hub for server management.
• With PETRONAS CEO: Explored investments in green hydrogen and ammonia production in Kakinada, with an investment of ₹13,000–15,000 crore, and discussed expanding PETRONAS’ operations to Mulapeta as a petrochemical hub.
• With PepsiCo Executives: Naidu proposed Visakhapatnam as a Global Delivery and Digital Hub for PepsiCo, while also suggesting the establishment of a Kurkure manufacturing unit to create jobs and enhance industrial growth.
• With Hindustan Unilever: Discussed setting up a palm oil industry with an investment of ₹330 crore in the state, along with the creation of a technology center in Visakhapatnam related to Unilever’s beauty products.

Naidu also met with representatives from DP World, urging them to consider Andhra Pradesh for a smart container terminal, especially in locations like Kakinada, Krishnapatnam, and Mulapeta. He also invited investments in the state’s seaports and integrated logistics.

Seeking Global Investments:
Naidu met with Roberto Bocca, Head of the Centre for Energy and Materials at the World Economic Forum, to seek support for attracting investments in green hydrogen, battery storage, and solar manufacturing. He also requested help in establishing a Clean Energy Knowledge and Skill Development Centre in Andhra Pradesh to advance clean energy initiatives.