Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed the government's commitment to eradicating polio, stating that every possible measure is being taken to protect Pakistan's children from the disease and safeguard their future. During a meeting with a delegation of the Polio Oversight Board at the Prime Minister House, the premier emphasized that polio eradication remains a national priority and called on all stakeholders to intensify their collective efforts.
Delegation Praises Progress in Polio Eradication
The delegation included Mike McGovern, Chair of Rotary's Polio Oversight Board; Chris Elias, President of Global Development at the Gates Foundation; Dr. Hanan Balkhy, Regional Director of WHO EMRO; and representatives from UNICEF, Gavi, and other partners supporting Pakistan's polio eradication efforts. The prime minister welcomed the delegation and thanked all partners for their continued cooperation with the Government of Pakistan in the fight against polio.
The delegation praised the Government of Pakistan's measures toward achieving a polio-free Pakistan and lauded the Prime Minister for the significant progress made. According to officials, Pakistan has reported fewer polio cases in recent years, with only six wild poliovirus cases in 2023 compared to 20 in 2022, reflecting the impact of intensified vaccination campaigns.
Focus on Southern Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Hotspots
Prime Minister Shehbaz directed that special attention be given to polio hotspots in southern Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and called for the adoption of an effective strategy to address the challenge. He stressed the need for targeted interventions in high-risk areas to ensure no child is missed during vaccination drives.
The meeting was also attended by Minister for National Health Mustafa Kamal, Prime Minister's Focal Person for Polio Eradication Senator Ayesha Raza Farooq, and other senior government officials. Senator Farooq briefed the premier on the current status of polio eradication efforts, highlighting the importance of cross-border coordination and community engagement.
PM Orders SMEDA to Facilitate SME Loans
In a separate development, the prime minister directed the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) to facilitate the provision of loans to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to boost the country's exports. Chairing a high-level review meeting to discuss matters related to SMEDA, he emphasized the need to enhance the capacity of SMEs and instructed that special facilitation, awareness, and access to easy credit should be provided to farmers for the processing of agricultural commodities and fruits.
The premier called for encouraging commercial banks to design specialized financial products tailored specifically for the credit needs of SMEs. He directed comprehensive assistance for SMEs during the preparation of feasibility studies and other stages, ensuring that businesses have the necessary support to grow and contribute to the economy. According to the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority, SMEs account for approximately 40% of Pakistan's GDP and 80% of non-agricultural employment, making their growth critical for economic stability.
