PM Abbasi, Gates talk social reforms at WEF

Reiterate support for polio eradication programme

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Wednesday discussed avenues of partnership in health, education and other social sectors with Bill Gates in a meeting at the World Economic Forum (WEF) on Wednesday, Radio Pakistan reported.

Accompanied by Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination Ms. Saira Afzal Tarar, Minister of State for Information, Broadcasting & National Heritage Ms. Marriyum Aurangzeb, Special Assistant to PM Mr. Ali Jehangir Siddiqui and senior government officials, the premier thanked Gate's foundation for their support to the country, particularly for the Polio Eradication Programme. Small and Medium Enterprizes (SMEs) and empowerment of farmers through financial and digital inclusion was also discussed during the meeting.

PM Abbasi reiterated his government's focus on social reforms, he updated Gates on the progress by Directorate of National Savings, partenered with Karandaaz Pakistan to digitise over seven million accounts and certificate holders.

Gates appreciated progress in eradicating polio during the last four years, acknowledging the government's commitment to the cause.