Polio eradication Is government’s top priority: PM Shehbaz

New York (Web Desk): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with Bill Gates, Chairman of the Gates Foundation, on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. During the meeting, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the areas of healthcare, nutrition, and digital transformation.

The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the generous support provided by the Gates Foundation during the devastating floods in Pakistan in 2025. He also acknowledged the Foundation's significant assistance during the 2022 floods. Shehbaz Sharif praised the Foundation’s contributions toward polio eradication, immunization efforts, and improving nutrition across Pakistan. He reaffirmed that eliminating polio remains a top priority for his government and highlighted the importance of continued partnership with the Gates Foundation in achieving this goal.

He further outlined his government’s initiatives aimed at economic reform, cashless digital transactions, and economic recovery. He appreciated the Gates Foundation’s encouraging role and collaboration in these efforts. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to work together to enhance Pakistan’s healthcare system, promote socio-economic development, and support digital progress.

Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also met with Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor, Professor Muhammad Yunus, in a cordial meeting held during the UNGA session. The two leaders discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, focusing on trade, regional connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges.

Prime Minister Sharif reiterated his commitment to strengthening relations based on mutual respect, trust, and shared goals for regional development. Professor Yunus commended Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives and emphasized the need for both countries to expand cooperation in cultural, trade, and connectivity sectors.