Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed his commitment to eliminating polio from Pakistan, declaring it a national priority. Speaking at the launch of a three-day anti-polio campaign, the Prime Minister pledged to drive the disease out of the country permanently.
The campaign, running from December 16 to 19, was inaugurated at a local hotel, where PM Shehbaz administered polio drops to children. He expressed gratitude to global partners, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Health Organization (WHO), and Saudi Arabia, for their unwavering support in Pakistan’s fight against polio.
Highlighting the challenge, the Prime Minister revealed that 60 polio cases have been reported across the country. “This is a significant challenge, but with the support of provincial governments and the dedication of our teams, we will overcome it,” he asserted.
PM Shehbaz urged parents to actively participate in the campaign by ensuring their children receive polio drops. “Protecting our children from this crippling disease is crucial for building a healthy and prosperous future for Pakistan,” he added.
The Prime Minister commended the tireless efforts of polio workers across all provinces, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and northern areas. He also extended gratitude to law enforcement agencies for providing essential support and ensuring the safety of the campaign teams.
“Together, we will achieve a polio-free Pakistan and secure a healthier future for generations to come,” PM Shehbaz concluded.