Islamabad, August 19, 2025(Ghufran): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated the government’s firm commitment to eradicating polio from Pakistan, stating that health teams, polio workers, and all concerned institutions are united in this national mission. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Rotary International for its strong support in line with other international partners, noting that their continued cooperation is vital in eliminating this crippling disease. “Challenges exist in the path to eradication, but through determination and hard work, we will secure the future of Pakistan’s children,” the Prime Minister emphasized. “Ending polio may be difficult, but it is not impossible. The pivotal role of polio workers in these campaigns deserves the highest appreciation.” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif made these remarks during a meeting with Mr. Francesco Arezzo, President of Rotary International Foundation, who called on him along with a delegation. Federal Minister for Health, Syed Mustafa Kamal, the Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Polio Eradication, Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, and senior officials also attended the meeting.
The delegation commended the government’s anti-polio initiatives and expressed confidence that under the Prime Minister’s leadership and special attention, Pakistan will soon be able to eradicate the disease. They reaffirmed Rotary International’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in this cause, informing that Rotary had spent USD 500 million in Pakistan on polio eradication efforts last year and intends to invest a substantial amount this year as well. The delegation also lauded the selection of the Prime Minister’s dedicated polio eradication team and the measures taken by them.