Riyadh, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Special Meeting in Riyadh. The leaders discussed the continuation and expansion of health initiatives, particularly polio eradication efforts in Pakistan, which have been supported by the Gates Foundation.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting also revisited the successful immunization and polio vaccine programs in the Punjab region, where Mr. Sharif previously served as Chief Minister. Mr. Gates emphasized the importance of replicating these practices nationwide to enhance the success of the immunization program. The discussions highlighted the ongoing partnership between Pakistan and the Gates Foundation, covering not only health but also areas like nutrition, financial inclusion, and potential collaborations in IT, STEM education, and disaster management. Prime Minister Sharif expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s support and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating polio. He also extended an invitation to Mr. Gates to visit Pakistan again at his convenience.