PM Shehbaz Urges Renewed Resolve to Eradicate Polio from Pakistan

APP

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday urged health authorities and frontline workers to redouble their efforts to make Pakistan polio-free, terming the virus’s continued presence in the country a “moment of introspection.”

Addressing a ceremony marking World Polio Day in Islamabad, the prime minister said that despite remarkable progress, Pakistan and its neighbouring country remained the only two places where the disease persists.

“Let’s brace ourselves and accept the challenge — if the whole world can become polio-free except Pakistan and our neighbour, then it’s time we introspect and act with greater resolve,” he said.

Shehbaz distributed appreciation shields to polio workers, acknowledging their courage and dedication in reaching remote and high-risk areas, often under challenging conditions. He said the nation owed “huge gratitude” to these field workers and to international partners who have long supported Pakistan’s polio eradication campaign.

The event was attended by Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Polio Focal Person Ayesha Raza Farooq, and representatives from WHO, UNICEF, and other global health partners.

The prime minister also expressed special appreciation for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, whose joint contribution of around half a billion dollars will support Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts in the coming years.

“This window of opportunity is limited — let’s not waste it. Time and tide wait for none,” he said, praying for a safe and healthy future for Pakistan’s children.

Shehbaz called on the health ministry and national campaign leadership to “further solidify their efforts” and bring Pakistan recognition as a country free of the disease that has long burdened its most vulnerable communities.