Bill Gates writes to Imran Khan, lauds polio eradication efforts

Says he looks forward to the day he and Imran can celebrate the eradication of polio

ISLAMABAD: Philanthropist and Microsoft billionaire Bill Gates has written to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, lauding his efforts for polio eradication in Pakistan and expressing interest in his initiative to use mapping technology as part of the eradication campaign.

“I am encouraged by your personal commitment to eliminate this disease in Pakistan. Your strong leadership comes at a critical time in our global efforts," he said in the letter.

Earlier this month during a telephonic conversation with Imran Khan, the chairman of the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation  appreciated Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's initiatives, particularly those pertaining to Polio eradication.

He congratulated Imran on conducting a successful anti-polio campaign, ‘Sehat Ka Ittehad’ (United for Health), in the province and expressed grief and sorrow over the killing of 131 students in a Taliban attack on an army-run school in Peshawar.

“I am interested in your opinion on the use of mapping technology in Pakistan — a technology which has helped Nigeria get close to eradicate polio. I know there are sensitivities around this type of technology, and I look to your guidance on what is appropriate. I’ve asked Dr Waqar Ajmal to follow up with your team during his current mission,” said the letter.

It is encouraging to see the army, federal and provincial governments working together under your banner “United for Health”. This initiative is key to interrupting transmission, and it highlights how polio is truly a humanitarian priority above political and partisan differences, it added.

"I have no doubt that your discussions with the chief secretary and chief minister of KP will help encourage the implementation of IPV campaigns and the revitalization of quarterly and monthly review meetings," he said.

He further said that the PTI chief's direct engagement and  leadership is essential to ensuring a polio-free future for all the children of K-P, Fata and Pakistan, adding that his work would have global reach and recognition.

"Thank you again for your commitment and dedication to these efforts. I look forward to the day when you and I can celebrate the eradication of this terrible disease and the improved health of all the world’s children," the letter concluded.