March 2, 2026
Loading...
Published by Aeyan Raza
January 28, 2026
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to completely eradicate polio, calling it a national priority that demands urgent and sustained action. His remarks came during a meeting with Chris Elias, President of Global Development at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, in Islamabad, according to state-run Radio Pakistan.
The prime minister said the government is pursuing a comprehensive and results-driven strategy, backed by strong coordination and an experienced team on the ground. While acknowledging the progress made so far, he stressed that polio remains a serious challenge and that emergency-level measures are still essential to eliminate the virus once and for all.
PM Shehbaz highlighted that the federal government is working closely with provincial administrations to ensure polio vaccination teams can safely and effectively access every corner of the country. He said seamless coordination is key to reaching children in high-risk and hard-to-reach areas, where gaps in coverage can allow the virus to persist.
He also confirmed that polio eradication projects under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) will continue nationwide, ensuring uninterrupted funding and logistical support for vaccination campaigns.
The prime minister expressed deep appreciation for the continued support of the Gates Foundation, as well as Saudi Arabia’s cooperation in Pakistan’s fight against polio. He noted that international partnerships remain critical in sustaining momentum, strengthening surveillance, and improving immunisation coverage.
Chris Elias praised PM Shehbaz’s personal involvement in the polio campaign, describing Pakistan’s recent measures as effective and encouraging. He said the country is moving in the right direction toward complete eradication and pledged continued engagement with federal and provincial authorities.
The meeting followed a visit by a Gates Foundation delegation to the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), where Pakistan’s Polio Eradication Programme reiterated its commitment to achieving the Roadmap to Zero Polio 2026. Officials believe that with consistent political will, community engagement, and global backing, Pakistan can finally close the chapter on polio.
