Islamabad: A high-level delegation from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), led by Dr. Christopher Elias, Chair of the Polio Oversight Board and President of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Development Division, met with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif today. The meeting focused on intensifying efforts to eradicate polio from Pakistan and achieve global health targets.
Strengthening International Partnerships for Public Health
The delegation’s visit highlighted the critical role of international collaboration in fighting infectious diseases. Dr. Elias reaffirmed GPEI’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s polio eradication campaigns and bolstering healthcare systems nationwide.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the delegation warmly and praised the ongoing partnership. He reiterated the government’s steadfast dedication to a polio-free Pakistan through enhanced vaccination drives targeting vulnerable populations.
Discussing Progress, Challenges, and Innovative Solutions
Key topics included the progress achieved so far, obstacles faced by frontline health workers, and new strategies to improve immunization coverage. Dr. Elias lauded Pakistan’s commitment and emphasized the need for sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure and community engagement.
The meeting also fostered an exchange of best practices among government agencies, international organizations, and civil society stakeholders.
Coordinated Action for a Polio-Free Future
With Pakistan remaining one of the few countries where polio transmission continues, the meeting underscored the urgency of joint action. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the importance of coordinated efforts and ongoing collaboration to overcome challenges and speed up eradication.
A Shared Commitment to Health and Prosperity
The visit ended with mutual assurances of continued cooperation between Pakistan and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. Both sides expressed strong determination to clear the final hurdles on the road to a polio-free world, ensuring a healthier future for all Pakistanis.
