Pakistan was working tirelessly to eradicate polio from the country: PM Shehbaz

RIYADH, April 29 (SABAH): Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met Bill Gates, founder and co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Special Meeting in Riyadh on Monday.

Earlier, both leaders had featured in a WEF high level panel discussion titled “Redefining the Global Health Agenda.”

The Prime Minister thanked Bill Gates for sending him a warm congratulatory letter upon his re-election. While fondly recalling their interactions during his previous tenure, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to continue working closely with Bill Gates to ensure a stronger partnership between Pakistan and the Gates Foundation.

The Prime Minister said Pakistan was working tirelessly to eradicate polio from the country. He thanked the BMGF for its longstanding support for polio eradication in Pakistan and said that a sustained effort was required by all partners to reach the ultimate goal of a polio-free Pakistan.

Bill Gates recalled the immunization and polio vaccine program in the Punjab under the leadership of Shehbaz Sharif as Chief Minister and emphasize on replicating the same practice across the country to make immunization program a success.

Bill Gates acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts and said polio eradication was vital to protect future generations from this crippling disease.

In addition to polio, the Prime Minister and Bill Gates also discussed progress on ongoing activities between Pakistan and the Foundation in the areas of immunization, nutrition, and financial inclusion. The Prime Minister said the Gates Foundation was a trusted partner in Pakistan’s socio-economic development and sought collaboration in other areas including IT, STEM education and disaster management.

Recalling Bill Gates’ visit to Pakistan in February 2022, the Prime Minister extended an invitation to him to visit Pakistan again at a time of his convenience.