PM reassures Bill Gates of govt’s resolve to eradicate polio

ISLAMABAD: At a recent meeting of the National Task Force on Polio Eradication, also attended by the Gates Foundation chairman Bill Gates, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the federal and provincial governments’ resolve to permanently eradicate polio from Pakistan, urging collective efforts to curb its spread.
Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the progress of the polio eradication campaign in Pakistan. However, he also mentioned the setbacks it faced with the resurgence of the virus in certain areas, clarifying that these challenges did not signify failure of the ongoing efforts to eliminate polio.
The meeting also attended by ministers, senior officials, and relevant authorities, underscored the government's dedication "to continue efforts aimed at protecting the lives of our children and improving their health," as assured by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He highlighted recent two nationwide polio eradication campaigns conducted in the past six months, alongside five campaigns targeting polio-affected areas.
Mr Sharif recalled comprehensive discussions on polio eradication during his recent meeting with Bill Gates in Riyadh, held alongside the World Economic Forum.
Acknowledging the Gates Foundation's consistent support, the premier lauded its contributions to polio eradication campaigns and initiatives addressing malnutrition, maternal, and child healthcare. 
He also mentioned the huge financial investments, including support totaling $240 million in 2022, $263 million in 2023, and $297 million in 2024, with an additional pledge of $500 million from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia over the next five years, announced during the World Economic Forum.
Bill Gates reaffirmed the Gates Foundation's commitment to supporting Pakistan in its efforts to eradicate polio and address health challenges comprehensively, stressing the need for sustained efforts to maintain the positive momentum achieved thus far.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to intensify efforts toward achieving a polio-free Pakistan and effectively addressing related health challenges.