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As cameras from local and international media flashed and under the
admiring eyes of the audience, Sophia proceeded with her keynote
speech and interactions highlighting the importance of technology in the
development of human lives.

The robot, who is championing the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals in Asia-Pacific, with a focus on innovation, was
in Nepal Wednesday to attend the Innovation Conference and Fair:
"Technology of Public Services and Development" organised by the United
Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Dressed in a white UNDP logoed T-shirt, the two-and-a-half-year-old,
red-lipped robot said that technology provides endless possibilities and
opportunities for the world.
Highlighting the importance of technology in Nepal and its applicability
to government models, Sophia said it can transform state institutions and
help in meeting global sustainable development goals.

"If artificial intelligence is used in Nepal, we can ensure better public
services, a revolution in the agriculture sector, make better use of limited
resources, protect the environment and make the world a better place,"
she said.

The celebrity robot, a "citizen" of Saudi Arabia, added that technology and
artificial intelligence can help in ending poverty and fighting starvation,
corruption and ensuring gender equality.

"Machines are here to make your life easier and we can connect your
country to the rest of the world," Sophia said.

The audience, comprising of government officials, private sector
representatives, civil servants and tech enthusiasts, among others, were
nodding in agreement at almost all of her statements, and cheered and
applauded throughout her speech.

"I hope the conference will inspire and generate brilliant ideas to help
Nepal achieve its development vision and global goals," Sophia said in the
conclusion of her three-minute long keynote speech.

The social robot developed by Hong Kong-based company, Hanson
Robotics, also answered a few questions raised by UNDP country director
Renaud Meyer.
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