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ISLAMABAD, (MANEND NEWS): Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates called on Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday during his first-ever visit to the country and discussed matters related to polio eradication and other important issues.
During the meeting, Bill Gates hailed Pakistan’s efforts for eradicating polio from the country and said that the country has been polio-free for one year due to the efforts of polio workers and the cooperation of the parents.
He said that Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will continue its cooperation with Pakistan.
After arrival in Islamabad earlier today, the philanthropist visited Pakistan Polio Programme where he was briefed on the polio eradication campaign, progress and challenges in the country. During the visit, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan was also present.
Gates visits NCOC
The Microsoft co-founder also visited the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) where he met Federal Minister for Planning Asad Umar and other senior health officials.
In a statement issued by the national COVID-19 body, Gates along with his delegation attended the morning session where they were apprised about NCOC’s role and methodology, achievements since the start of the pandemic, the recent COVID -19 situation across Pakistan and various protocols placed by the government to control disease spread and ensure public safety and well being.
A comprehensive review of Pakistan’s efforts against Covid-19 was presented to visiting delegation.
Bill Gates took a keen interest in various initiatives by NCOC, particularly smart lockdown and micro smart lockdown strategy enforcement measures and Pakistan’s vaccine administration regime which enabled the authorities to formulate and implement a comprehensive COVID-19 response, read the statement.
Speaking on the occasion, NCOC chief Asad Umar acknowledged the efforts of Bill Gates and his foundation to support COVID-19 initiatives in Pakistan.
Gates appreciated Pakistan’s success against COVID-19 despite resource constraints and introducing excellent initiatives and measures for public health safety.