ABU DHABI: Pakistan has pledged USD 639.54 million over the next four years to support global efforts to eradicate polio, Planning Minister Prof. Ahsan Iqbal announced while addressing the High-Level Pledging Moment for Polio Eradication in Abu Dhabi on behalf of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Speaking at the event, the minister said that Pakistan’s commitment to ending polio is rooted not only in public health priorities but in a deep moral responsibility.
“Polio eradication is not simply a public health programme for us it is a moral obligation. Every child we save from paralysis is a victory for humanity. Every child we fail is a wound to our collective conscience,” he said.
Prof. Iqbal outlined Pakistan’s strategy built on three core pillars:
Strong political leadership: Polio eradication has been designated a top national priority under PM Shehbaz Sharif, with federal and provincial governments working in unified coordination.
A sharper, technology-driven strategy: Pakistan is expanding campaign reach, strengthening the frontline workforce, and enhancing data-driven monitoring to ensure every child is vaccinated. The government is also integrating polio infrastructure into broader health reforms under the URAAN Pakistan initiative.
Trusted global partnerships: The minister acknowledged the support of the UAE, Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, WHO, UNICEF, Rotary International, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, CDC, and GPEI partners calling it “one of the most successful humanitarian partnerships in modern history.”
He paid tribute to frontline health workers, praising their dedication in reaching remote and difficult terrains.
“Their courage is the beating heart of this mission,” he noted.
During the event, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal also met Bill Gates, who announced a significant $1.2 billion contribution towards global polio eradication. He said Gates’ continued commitment “stands as a powerful example of compassion, leadership, and service to mankind.”
On behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, the minister conveyed gratitude for Gates’ support and reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to eliminate polio permanently.
“Together, with strong international partnerships and our national resolve, we are determined to make polio-free Pakistan,” he added.
Pakistan and Afghanistan remain the only two countries where polio is still endemic.
