Prime Minister’s meeting with Bill Gates, discussion on ongoing activities in Pakistan

Islamabad: The Prime Minister met Bill Gates on the sidelines of a special WEF meeting in Riyadh to discuss ongoing activities between Pakistan and the Gates Foundation in the areas of immunization, nutrition and financial inclusion.

Earlier, the two leaders participated in a high-level panel discussion at the World Economic Forum titled “Redefining the Global Health Agenda”.

The Prime Minister thanked Bill Gates for his congratulatory letter on his re-election. Referring to his meeting with Bill Gates during his previous tenure, the Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to continue working with Mr. Gates to ensure a strong partnership between Pakistan and the Gates Foundation.

The Prime Minister said that Pakistan is working tirelessly to eradicate polio from the country. He thanked BMGF for its long-standing support for polio eradication in Pakistan and said that continuous efforts are needed by all partners to reach the ultimate goal of a polio-free Pakistan.

Mr. Bill Gates praised the program of immunization and polio immunization in Punjab under the leadership of Shehbaz Sharif as Chief Minister and suggested to spread this practice across the country.

Mr. Gates appreciated the efforts of Pakistan and said that eradication of polio is very important to save the future generations from this deadly disease.

The Prime Minister said that the Gates Foundation is a reliable partner in the socio-economic development of Pakistan and provides support in IT, STEM education and disaster management among other areas. Recalling Mr. Gates’ visit to Pakistan in February 2022, the Prime Minister invited him to visit Pakistan again at his convenience.