Canada Backs Pakistan’s Polio Eradication Drive

Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan, His Excellency Tarik Ali Khan, visited the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) in Islamabad, where he was received by the Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio, Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, along with representatives from UNICEF and WHO. Ms. Farooq acknowledged Canada’s long-standing support for Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts, which have achieved a 99% reduction in cases since 1994. She highlighted the role of over 400,000 vaccinators, more than half of them women, in reaching every child across the country.

During the briefing, National Coordinator Mr. Anwar Ul Haq shared encouraging updates on the current polio situation and progress made over the past year. The High Commissioner reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s efforts to eliminate polio and expressed appreciation for the dedication of the frontline workers. The visit underscored the shared commitment of both nations to achieving a polio-free Pakistan through sustained collaboration and investment.