PM Imran Khan, Bill Gates discuss polio eradication drive, Covid-19 situation

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan had a telephonic conversation with Bill Gates, Co-Chairman of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation here on Thursday and discussed matters of shared concern including polio eradication in Pakistan and the ongoing Covid-19 situation.

According to a handout issued by Prime Minister (PM) Office, during the telephonic conversation, the prime minister expressed appreciation for the work of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in fighting poverty, disease, and inequity around the world.

PM Imran reaffirmed that eradication of polio from Pakistan remained a key priority of the government and efforts were underway to intensify the anti-Polio campaign across the country despite challenges related to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI had a telephonic conversation with Mr. @BillGates, Co-Chairman of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, today and discussed matters of shared concern including Polio Eradication in Pakistan and the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. pic.twitter.com/4hH7Oc5G8G

— Prime Minister’s Office, Pakistan (@PakPMO) January 20, 2022

He also underscored that Pakistan witnessed continued positive progress with the sharp reduction in Polio cases in 2021 and recorded only one polio case in the whole year.

While commending the Gates Foundation’s strong advocacy to promote equitable access to Covid-19 vaccines, the premier underscored the importance of equitable, timely, and scaled delivery of Covid-19 vaccines to help low-income countries alleviate the social and economic effects of the pandemic.

Bill Gates appreciated the recent efforts made by Pakistan to eradicate Polio, reinforced his commitment to Polio eradication; acknowledged Pakistan’s successful Covid-19 vaccination campaign; and assured of Gates Foundation’s continued support.

PM Imran Khan and Bill Gates agreed to continue working together on the shared objectives.