PM reaffirms resolve to eradicate polio

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed the government's commitment to completely eradicate polio as he met a delegation from the Gates Foundation.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, PM Shehbaz met with the delegation in Islamabad, which included Gates Foundation representatives Kalpana Kochhar and Anita Zaidi.

The prime minister appreciated the foundation's continued support and partnership with Pakistan amid the country's developmental challenges.

He said the National Polio Eradication Programme enjoyed patronage at the highest level, underscoring the government's resolve to eliminate the crippling disease.

PM Shehbaz also hailed the Gates Foundation for playing a commendable role in polio eradication, health, nutrition, financial inclusion and the welfare of vulnerable segments of society.

He said key reform priorities, including digital payments, food security, maternal and newborn health, poverty alleviation and climate change, were part of the government's governance reforms agenda.

"A cashless economy is a fundamental component of the Government of Pakistan's transformation agenda," the prime minister said, adding that the move aimed to make life easier for ordinary citizens, enhance transparency in government systems and ensure that public funds reached deserving segments of society without delay or wastage.

Trade Facilitation Board

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government was committed to making Pakistan an effective part of regional and global supply chains through trade facilitation.

He was chairing the first meeting of Trade Facilitation Board. He said the government was committed to providing all possible facilities to the business community. "Promoting trade and facilitating business activities is among the top priorities of the government," he said, adding, "Effective steps should be taken to eliminate unnecessary delays in trade processes, reduce business costs and promote exports."