The prime minister emphasised at the meeting held on the fringes of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Special Meeting that Pakistan was making every effort to eradicate polio from the nation, according to a news release from the PM Office.
Prior to this, both leaders had participated in a high-level panel discussion on “Redefining the Global Health Agenda” at the WEF.
Upon his reelection, the prime minister expressed gratitude to Bill Gates for his heartfelt message of congratulations. In order to ensure the success of the immunisation programme, Bill Gates emphasised the need to replicate the same process nationwide. He cited the immunisation and polio vaccine programme in Punjab province, which was managed by Shehbaz Sharif in his capacity as chief minister.
A deeper connection between Pakistan and the Gates Foundation is what the prime minister pledged to ensure while reminiscing fondly about his former tenure’s encounters with Bill Gates.
He expressed his gratitude to the BMGF for its ongoing assistance in Pakistan’s polio eradication effort. Bill Gates commended Pakistan’s efforts and stated that the elimination of polio was essential to shielding future generations from this debilitating illness.
Along with polio, Bill Gates and Prime Minister Shehbaz also spoke about the advancements being made in Pakistan and the Foundation’s ongoing work in the fields of nutrition, financial inclusion, and vaccination.
In addition to seeking cooperation in IT, STEM education, and disaster management, the prime minister declared that the Gates Foundation was a reliable partner in Pakistan’s socioeconomic development.
Recalling Bill Gates’ February 2022 visit to Pakistan, the prime minister invited him back at a time of his choosing.
