According to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the premier thanked the co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) for sending a congratulatory letter upon his re-election as prime minister after February 8 general elections.

It said, “While fondly recalling their interactions during his previous tenure, the prime minister reaffirmed his commitment to continue working closely with Gates to ensure a stronger partnership between” Pakistan and the BMGF.”

 “The prime minister said Pakistan was working tirelessly to eradicate polio from the country. He thanked the BMGF for its longstanding support for polio eradication in Pakistan and said that a sustained effort was required by all partners to reach the ultimate goal of a polio-free Pakistan,” it maintained.

On the occasion, the billionaire recalled the immunisation and polio vaccine programme in the Punjab under his leadership as chief minister. He stressed on replicating the same practice across the country to make the immunisation plan a success.

In addition, the two sides discussed progress on ongoing activities between Pakistan and the BMGF in the areas of immunisation, nutrition, and financial inclusion, the statement said.

It added, “The prime minister said the Gates Foundation was a trusted partner in Pakistan’s socio-economic development and sought collaboration in other areas including IT, STEM education and disaster management.”