Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Microsoft founder and Gates Foundation co-chair Bill Gates on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session in New York.
Key Focus Areas
The talks centered on Pakistan’s polio eradication drive, efforts to improve nutrition, and relief for communities devastated by floods.
Gratitude for Gates Foundation’s Role
PM Shehbaz thanked the Gates Foundation for its consistent support in Pakistan’s fight against polio and for contributing to better nutrition standards. He emphasized that global cooperation remains crucial to achieving a polio-free Pakistan.
Flood Relief Support Appreciated
Highlighting the Foundation’s humanitarian role, the premier praised its timely flood relief efforts in 2022 and its continued support for victims of recent disasters, calling the aid “a lifeline for vulnerable communities.”
Beyond Health — Economic Reforms & Digitalisation
PM Shehbaz also acknowledged the Gates Foundation’s role in supporting Pakistan’s economic reforms and digitalization efforts, stressing that these initiatives are helping the country move forward in technology and development.
Commitment to Stronger Partnership
Both PM Shehbaz and Bill Gates reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in health, humanitarian relief, and long-term development initiatives in Pakistan.