Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met a Gates Foundation delegation on Wednesday to discuss polio eradication efforts in Pakistan. The meeting focused on collaboration and ongoing strategies to eliminate the disease. Both sides emphasized the need for continued support and joint action.
Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan will continue efforts until polio is completely eradicated. He praised the Gates Foundation as a trusted partner in this fight. He also acknowledged support from Muslim-majority countries, especially Saudi Arabia, in strengthening vaccination campaigns.
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He stressed that the government is implementing a comprehensive strategy with a strong team. Despite progress, he said emergency measures are still needed to combat polio fully. He highlighted the importance of nationwide outreach and effective coordination with provincial authorities.
The Prime Minister directed the federal health ministry to coordinate with all relevant agencies. The focus will remain on polio eradication, public awareness, and vaccine delivery across the country. He confirmed that these initiatives will continue under the Public Sector Development Program.
Read more: PM reaffirms commitment to polio eradication in meeting with Gates
During the meeting, Gates Foundation President for Global Development Chris Elias praised Pakistan’s efforts. He said the country is on the right track for polio eradication. Elias also commended the government for ensuring access for vaccination teams and eliminating environmental traces of the virus.