Bill Gates writes to President Alvi; lauds Pakistan's fight against polio

San Francisco: The Co-chairman of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates has appreciated Pakistan's efforts in fight against wild polio virus. 

In a letter written to President Dr Arif Alvi, he lauded Pakistan's high-level commitment to protecting the health and well-being of every child in the country.

He noted that Pakistan has made remarkable progress in the fight against wild poliovirus with no cases for over a year – although circulation of the disease has persisted in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). 

Thanking the President for a warm welcome on his first visit to Pakistan, he said it was an honour to receive the Hilal-e-Pakistan national award, in recognition of his meritorious services to the people of Pakistan, particularly for the eradication of polio.

Bill Gates remarked that Pakistan has made remarkable progress in the fight against poliovirus, with no cases for over a year.

“Your continued engagement on polio will go a long way to accelerating your country’s continued progress,” the Microsoft co-founder said.

The fourth richest man in the world further said he looks forward to a deepening partnership between the government of Pakistan and his foundation to tackle issues of shared interest.