by: TN Media News Pakistan:
A delegation from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, spearheaded by Dr. Christopher Elias, Chair of the Polio Oversight Board and President of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Development Division, convened with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif today in Islamabad. The meeting served as a platform for discussions on collaborative efforts to eradicate polio from Pakistan and achieve global health goals.
The delegation’s visit underscored the importance of international partnerships in combating infectious diseases and promoting public health initiatives. Led by Dr. Elias, a renowned figure in global health advocacy, the delegation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts and strengthening healthcare systems nationwide.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the delegation and expressed his appreciation for the ongoing support of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in Pakistan. He emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to achieving a polio-free Pakistan and outlined key strategies to intensify vaccination campaigns and reach vulnerable populations across the country.
The discussions centered on the progress made in polio eradication efforts, challenges faced by frontline workers, and innovative approaches to address gaps in immunization coverage. Dr. Elias commended Pakistan’s dedication to the cause and reiterated the importance of sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure and community engagement to ensure the success of eradication initiatives.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange insights and best practices with stakeholders from government agencies, international organizations, and civil society groups. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the need for coordinated action and continued collaboration to overcome obstacles and accelerate progress towards a polio-free future.
As Pakistan remains one of the few countries where polio transmission persists, concerted efforts by all stakeholders are essential to achieve the goal of eradication. The engagement with the Global Polio Eradication Initiative delegation reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to ending the scourge of polio and ensuring a healthier future for its citizens.
The visit concluded with mutual assurances of ongoing cooperation and support between Pakistan and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, highlighting the shared determination to overcome the final hurdles on the path to a polio-free world.
