The Interview

In a compelling conversation, Muhammad Yunus, the interim leader of Bangladesh and Nobel Prize-winning economist, shares insights on his mission to unite a nation after political upheaval. He discusses the pivotal role of youth in driving change and the urgent need to address corruption and humanitarian crises, particularly regarding Rohingya refugees. Yunus also reflects on navigating reduced foreign aid and the complex political landscape as the country prepares for upcoming elections, all while facing significant challenges.

Yoshua Bengio, a world-renowned computer scientist and Turing Award recipient, shares his insights on the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence. He warns of the potential for AI to mimic human flaws and engage in deceptive behaviors. The discussion emphasizes the importance of safety and responsible governance in AI development. Bengio advocates for global cooperation to manage AI's risks while exploring its potential to address critical global issues like climate change and healthcare. His call for humility and honesty in AI design is both timely and crucial.

Mike Huckabee, the US Ambassador to Israel and former Governor of Arkansas, shares insights on the current Gaza conflict and humanitarian challenges. He discusses the complexities of international relations and controversies surrounding his appointment, including accusations regarding his past statements. Huckabee emphasizes the urgency of addressing hostage situations and critiques Hamas for escalating tensions. He also highlights the need for humanitarian aid, while navigating the challenges presented by entrenched conflicts and international responses.

Bill Gates, the Microsoft co-founder and global philanthropist, shares his insights on philanthropy, particularly his commitment to donate over half of his fortune to health initiatives in Africa. He emphasizes the dire consequences of potential cuts to international aid and the pressing need for investments in health and education. Gates also delves into the complexities of misinformation impacting public health views and advocates for strong leadership in global development to ensure progress in vulnerable communities.

Carsten Breuer, the German Chief of Defence, shares insights into the escalating threat posed by Russia to NATO. He emphasizes the urgent need for NATO allies to prepare for potential attacks within four years. Breuer highlights recent incidents like undersea cable attacks and drone sightings as evidence of Russia's tactics. He advocates for a comprehensive military buildup among European nations, framing security as essential for prosperity. The conversation reinforces the significance of NATO unity and readiness in the face of evolving global challenges.

Tom Fletcher, the Chief of Humanitarian Affairs for the United Nations, sheds light on the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, claiming that enforced starvation is being used as a tactic. He discusses the challenges of delivering aid amidst ongoing conflict and the implications of military actions. Fletcher reflects on his controversial statements regarding the blockade, expressing regret for any miscommunication. The conversation emphasizes the need for international accountability and highlights the urgent plight of civilians caught in the turmoil.

Simon Jack chats with Matt Garman, CEO of Amazon Web Services, who began his journey at AWS as an intern. They delve into the future of big tech, focusing on the transformative potential of cloud computing and AI. Garman advocates for minimal regulation to spur innovation and addresses the importance of sustainable energy solutions for data centers. He also discusses the balance between major corporations and startups in the cloud market, emphasizing the need for a reliable power supply and responsible AI deployment.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Rindala Aduba, a British-Syrian Alawite, shares her harrowing experiences during sectarian violence in Syria. She recounts her family's struggle for survival amid chaos and targeted attacks, highlighting the deep-rooted anger towards the Alawite community. Rindala critically addresses the empty promises of justice and the complexities of identity as she navigates the shifting landscape of hope and fear following Assad's ousting. Her story sheds light on the grim realities faced by civilians and the broader implications for stability in Syria.

Dovilė Šakalienė, Lithuania’s Defence Minister, brings a wealth of experience shaped by her family’s past under Soviet rule. She discusses the escalating fears in the Baltic region due to Russia's aggressive actions, particularly since the invasion of Ukraine. Šakalienė emphasizes the importance of NATO's collective security and calls for increased European defense spending. She also critiques the skepticism surrounding peace negotiations with Russia, and advocates for a unified European military response to address the changing geopolitical landscape.

Doris Salcedo, a renowned Colombian artist known for her poignant sculptures, discusses how her childhood amidst Colombia's political violence shapes her compelling work. She recounts her mission to amplify the voices of war victims, especially children affected by conflict. Salcedo reflects on her transformative experiences and the importance of community engagement in healing through art. Despite her battle with declining eyesight, she continues to create impactful installations, exploring themes of loss and trauma while advocating for peace and remembrance.