PM vows to make Pakistan polio-free

Shehbaz pays tributes to martyred polio workers

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Thursday that with the support of the nation and global partners, Pakistan remained committed to achieving the goal of becoming a polio-free country, ensuring a future where no child was affected by this preventable disease.

In his message on World Polio Day, observed on October 24, Shehbaz said that the incumbent government was steadfast in its efforts to make Pakistan polio-free and had made significant progress in reducing polio cases.

"Today, on World Polio Day, we unite to raise awareness and renew our commitment to eradicating polio—a disease that has impacted millions of children. Pakistan stands with the global community in this mission."

In this regard, he mentioned the "tireless work of our health workers and international partners" like the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

"However, challenges remain, including security concerns, misinformation, and access to remote areas. Despite these obstacles, our health workers continue to work bravely to vaccinate every child," the prime minister said.

"This fight is about more than polio—it's about building a robust public health system and safeguarding the health of future generations. I urge all parents to vaccinate their children and call on community leaders to spread the message of polio eradication," Shehbaz remarked.

Later, addressing an event to recognise the sacrifices of the polio workers, Shehbaz paid tributes to the efforts and sacrifices of the polio workers, calling them the "real heroes". He distributed shields among the family members of the martyred polio workers.

"Around 40 cases have been reported across four provinces. Today, we make a pledge to handle these cases effectively. We will not sit idle until the virus is eliminated from the country. This is a challenge which we have accepted," he remarked.