Provincial Minister for Health, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Khaleeq ur Rehman here on Saturday held a meeting with high-level delegation from the Gates Foundation in Peshawar to discuss continued cooperation in strengthening health sector and making efforts towards a polio-free Pakistan.
Health minister meets Gates Foundation, Gavi leadership to strengthen cooperation for polio elimination
PESHAWAR, Jul 11 (APP): Provincial Minister for Health, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Khaleeq ur Rehman here on Saturday held a meeting with high-level delegation from the Gates Foundation in Peshawar to discuss continued cooperation in strengthening health sector and making efforts towards a polio-free Pakistan.
Secretary Health Shahid Ullah Khan was also present during the meeting. The meeting was also attended by Dr. Sania Nishtar, Head of Gavi and senior officials from Gates Foundation and KP Health Department.
The meeting focused on key areas of collaboration, particularly the ongoing partnership in polio eradication, strengthening routine immunization, improving child health and enhancing support for public health initiatives in KP and across Pakistan.
Speaking on the occasion, Provincial Health Minister, Khaleeq ur Rehman reaffirmed KP government unwavering commitment to eliminate polio and protecting every child through effective immunization. He stated that the provincial government is utilizing all available resources to ensure the success of polio eradication campaigns and to further strengthen routine vaccination services.
The minister appreciated the longstanding technical and financial support extended by Gates Foundation and Gavi and noted that contributions of international development partners have played a vital role in improving immunization coverage, strengthening health systems and supporting the country’s efforts to eradicate polio.
During the discussion, both sides exchanged views on enhancing cooperation to reach children in high risk areas, improving vaccine coverage, strengthening surveillance and ensuring the successful implementation of future immunization and public health initiatives.
Gates Foundation and Gavi representatives acknowledged the efforts of provincial government in improving public health and reaffirmed their commitment to continue close collaboration in support of Pakistan’s goal of becoming a polio free country.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further strengthen the longstanding partnership between KP government, Gates Foundation and Gavi to improve immunization services and achieve a healthier future for the people of Pakistan.
