Bill Gates hails Pakistan’s efforts to eradicate polio, Covid-19

In a telephonic conversation, PM Imran praises Gates Foundation's advocacy to promote equitable access to vaccines

Prime Minister Imran Khan had a telephonic conversation with Bill Gates, co-chairman of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, on Thursday and discussed matters of shared concern including polio eradication in Pakistan and the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The premier expressed appreciation for the work of the Gates Foundation in fighting poverty, disease, and inequity around the world. “He, in particular, lauded the work of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in Pakistan,” read a statement issued by the PM Office.

Bill Gates appreciated the recent efforts made by Pakistan to eradicate polio, reinforced his commitment to polio eradication and acknowledged Pakistan’s successful Covid-19 vaccination campaign. He also assured of Gates Foundation’s continued support.

Also read: No polio cases reported in the region in 11 months: Dr Azra Pechuho

PM Imran reaffirmed that eradication of polio from Pakistan remains a key priority of the government and efforts are underway to intensify the anti-polio campaign across the country despite challenges related to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the statement added.

He also underscored that Pakistan witnessed continued positive progress with a sharp reduction in polio cases in 2021 and recorded only one polio case in the whole year.

While commending the Gates Foundation’s strong advocacy to promote equitable access to Covid-19 vaccines, the prime minister underscored the importance of equitable, timely, and scaled delivery of Covid-19 vaccines to help low-income countries alleviate the social and economic effects of the pandemic.

“The prime minister and Gates agreed to continue working together on the shared objectives.”