Kakar, Gates discuss efforts for Polio eradication in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Tuesday held a telephonic conversation with Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), to discuss the ongoing progress in eradicating polio from Pakistan.

The conversation took place while the prime minister was on an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Building on their prior discussion in New York during their meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session in September, Kakar and Gates delved into the current status of efforts to combat the menace of polio in Pakistan.

The prime minister commended the Gates Foundation for its steadfast support of the government’s initiatives to make Pakistan polio-free.

He emphasised Pakistan’s resolute commitment to eliminating this debilitating virus and provided updates on the ongoing polio vaccination drive across the country.

The conversation also touched upon critical issues of malnutrition and maternal health, showcasing the comprehensive nature of the discussion.

Expressing contentment, the prime minister highlighted the excellent cooperation between the government and the BMGF.

He assured Gates of the Pakistani government’s full dedication to realising a promise of a healthier, safer, and financially inclusive Pakistan.

The prime minister underscored the importance of reliable partnerships with organisations like BMGF in achieving these goals.  –Agencies