PM Shehbaz’s fresh resolve with Gates Foundation to end polio from Pakistan

by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated his government’s commitment to eradicating polio from Pakistan following a meeting with a delegation from the Gates Foundation on Wednesday.

Focus on Continued Efforts

The meeting between Prime Minister Sharif and Dr. Chris Elias, President of Global Development at the Gates Foundation, centered on the ongoing work to eliminate polio within Pakistan. The Prime Minister stated the government will continue to implement concrete measures, with the support of partners like the Gates Foundation.

Did You Know? The meeting between Prime Minister Sharif and the Gates Foundation delegation took place on January 28, 2026.

Prime Minister Sharif acknowledged the contributions of Bill Gates to polio eradication efforts in Pakistan. He also expressed gratitude for the cooperation extended by the Gates Foundation and “brotherly Muslim countries” in the fight against the disease.

A Comprehensive Strategy

According to the Prime Minister, the government is pursuing a comprehensive strategy, utilizing an effective team to address the challenge. He reaffirmed his commitment to the complete elimination of polio from Pakistan, while also noting that continued “emergency-level measures” are essential despite notable progress.

Expert Insight: The Prime Minister’s emphasis on continued emergency measures suggests that, despite gains, polio eradication in Pakistan remains a complex undertaking requiring sustained and focused resources. Maintaining international partnerships, like the one with the Gates Foundation, will likely be crucial for continued success.

A possible next step could involve increased funding for vaccination campaigns and enhanced surveillance to identify and address remaining pockets of the virus. It is also likely that the government will continue to collaborate with international organizations and neighboring countries to prevent the re-emergence of polio. Analysts expect that ongoing monitoring and rapid response to outbreaks will be key to achieving lasting success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary focus of the meeting?

The meeting focused on ongoing efforts to eliminate polio from Pakistan.

Who did Prime Minister Sharif meet with?

Prime Minister Sharif met with Dr. Chris Elias, President of Global Development at the Gates Foundation, and a delegation from the organization.

What did the Prime Minister say about the Gates Foundation’s contributions?

The Prime Minister acknowledged the valuable contributions of Bill Gates towards polio eradication in Pakistan and expressed gratitude for the cooperation of the Gates Foundation.

What challenges might Pakistan face in achieving complete polio eradication?

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