Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to eradicate polio entirely from the country, emphasizing ongoing government initiatives and international cooperation.
Government Strategy and Coordination
Speaking in Islamabad with Chris Elias, President of Global Development at the Gates Foundation, the Prime Minister outlined the government’s comprehensive approach. He stated that a dedicated team is actively implementing practical measures to combat polio nationwide.
“The government is implementing a comprehensive strategy and taking practical actions with an effective team,” he said. He also expressed sincere gratitude for the support provided by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Saudi Arabia in this public health campaign.
Ongoing Emergency Measures and Collaboration
Despite notable progress in the fight against polio, PM Shehbaz underscored the necessity of maintaining emergency measures. He highlighted the federal government’s close coordination with provincial authorities to ensure polio vaccination teams have access throughout Pakistan.
He added that relevant projects under the Public Sector Development Programme will continue to support the polio eradication campaign across the country.
International Recognition and Future Plans
Chris Elias acknowledged the Prime Minister’s personal commitment to polio eradication and commended the effective steps being taken. He recognized Pakistan’s progress toward the goal of completely eliminating polio.
Elias also mentioned ongoing constructive consultations with federal and provincial governments, as well as relevant institutions, to sustain momentum in the eradication efforts.
Recent Developments
This reaffirmation follows a recent visit by a high-level Gates Foundation delegation to the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC). During the visit, Pakistan’s Polio Eradication Programme reiterated its commitment to achieving the Roadmap to Zero Polio by 2026.
