Warren Buffett, Bill and Melinda Gates met with India’s business and philanthropy leaders today to learn about philanthropy directly from them and to discuss their own enthusiasm for the work of philanthropy.

“India has a remarkable tradition of giving, said Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and chairman of Microsoft. “It was an honour to meet with those families who talked quite enthusiastically about their own approach to philanthropy.”

“There was tremendous give and take in the session,” continued Mr. Gates. “It’s clear there’s some great thinking going on about philanthropy. India has historically produced some of the most important philanthropists the world has known. I’m certain it will continue to do so again.”

“It was a very special evening, said Melinda Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. “These families are clearly thinking very hard about how to make the greatest impact and bring their business acumen to the world of giving. Bill and I spent much of the week seeing firsthand the need and the opportunity India has before it. I’m quite optimistic these families will do extraordinary things with the good fortune they have received.”

“I’ve been looking forward to this opportunity for some time, said Warren Buffett, chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. “There is enthusiasm among the people we spoke with for doing giving in the best possible way. This forum allowed us to learn a lot about what’s going on in India, and share our own reasons about giving.”

“Today’s gathering of India’s leaders has been an excellent opportunity for us to discuss the part we can all play in contributing to equitable & sustainable development of India”, said Mr Azim Premji, chairman of Wipro, Ltd and founder of the Azim Premji Foundation. “Speaking for myself, I’m completely committed to supporting the larger ambition of catalyzing social change that builds a better society.”

“The Giving Discussion was moderated by Rohini Nilekani, and took place at the Taj Mahal Hotel. After a 90-minute meeting, a reception was held. At Mr. Buffett and Mr. and Mrs. Gates’ request, the guest list will not be made public, in deference to the privacy of guests.