Islamabad, August 19, 2025: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed the government’s determination to completely eradicate polio from Pakistan, pledging continued efforts by the health sector, frontline workers, and all relevant institutions.
The prime minister made these remarks during a meeting with a Rotary International Foundation delegation led by its President, Francesco Arezzo. He thanked Rotary International, along with other global partners, for extending “full cooperation” in the fight against the crippling disease.
“Despite challenges, we are fully committed to securing the future of our children,” PM Shehbaz said. “There are difficulties in eradicating polio, but it is not impossible. The role of polio workers in these campaigns is truly commendable.”
The visiting delegation appreciated the government’s focus on polio eradication and praised the leadership of the prime minister. They expressed confidence that under Shehbaz Sharif’s special attention, Pakistan would soon achieve a polio-free status.
Reaffirming Rotary International’s commitment, the delegation said the organisation had spent $500 million on polio eradication efforts in Pakistan last year and would allocate a substantial amount for the current year as well. They also welcomed the government’s decision to appoint a dedicated and experienced team to lead the national campaign.
The meeting was also attended by Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal, the Prime Minister’s Special Representative for Polio Eradication Ayesha Raza Farooq, and senior officials from the health sector.
