Despite COVID-19 challenges, efforts on to make polio-free Pakistan: PM

Following a telephonic conversation with Co-Chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BFGF) Bill Gates, Imran Khan reaffirmed that polio eradication remains a key national priority for the government.

The premier appreciated the work of BMGF for the socio-economic uplift of the most disadvantaged people around the globe, especially for promoting universal access to health services and combating infectious diseases.

Khan expressed gratitude over BMGF's partnership with Pakistan to rid the country of polio.

Bill Gates expressed his appreciation for the Prime Minister's leadership for this national cause. He said while progress is encouraging, keeping up pressure will be the key to ending transmission for good.

Imran Khan expressed his satisfaction over the substantive progress in cutting the transmission of the poliovirus in the country.

The special polio eradication campaign was launched in the country earlier this month, during which the dose were administered to over 33 million children under five years of age.

“Polio will be eradicated soon with the support of all partners,” said Premier.

He also highlighted Pakistan's efforts to overcome the third wave of coronavirus in Pakistan.

Alluding to Pakistan's potential in the Information Technology (IT) sector and the government's business friendly IT policy, Imran encouraged Microsoft to further expand its footprint in the country.