Pakistan fully committed to polio eradication, PM Kakar tells Bill Gates

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Wednesday underscored that the caretaker government and the National Polio Task Force remained fully committed to reaching children nationwide with polio vaccines, routine immunizations, and other essential health services, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Thursday.

The prime minister met Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to discuss polio eradication, gender equality, nutrition, and financial inclusion, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly session, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.

The prime minister expressed optimism that stopping poliovirus transmission in every area of the country remained possible this year.

Gates reiterated that polio eradication in Pakistan was a top priority, with particular interest in stopping cross-border transmission with Afghanistan and continuing vaccination campaigns in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

He also expressed his confidence in the National Emergency Operations Centre and the caretaker government to continue ongoing efforts for ending poliovirus transmission.

While meeting @BillGates today at the #UNGA78, our discussion focused on cooperation for sustainable development and the ongoing efforts to eradicate polio. We are steadfast in our commitment to a healthier and prosperous future for our citizens. @gatesfoundation pic.twitter.com/swbTkINtY0

— Anwaar ul Haq Kakar (@anwaar_kakar) September 20, 2023

Gates also shared his appreciation for the prime minister’s support in scaling up innovations and proven approaches to nutrition and improving financial inclusion efforts in Pakistan.

The prime minister and Gates also discussed how improvements across these priorities help improve gender equality efforts, ensuring that women and girls could prioritize their health, finances and futures, and be leaders in their societies.