PM, Bill Gates discuss joint action on COVID-19, polio, climate change

In a telephonic conversation with Bill Gates, Imran Khan commended the work of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to promote equitable access to Covid vaccines, fighting poverty and inequalities around the world.

Both agreed on the importance of putting an end to the spread of deadly coronavirus, polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases in Pakistan.

Khan reaffirmed that eradication of polio remained a key priority of the government and efforts were underway to intensify the anti-polio campaign across the country.

He affirmed his commitment to strengthening efforts nationwide to achieve a polio-free Pakistan.

Recalling his recent letter addressed to Bill Gates on Climate Change, Imran Khan described Pakistan's flagship initiatives, including the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami Initiative to Bill Gates.

The billionaire acknowledged Pakistan's commitment to address climate change and agreed that the world must come together to face this global challenge.

Highlighting that food systems are particularly vulnerable to climate change, Khan emphasized that the global leaders should prioritize investments in agricultural research for adaptation.

He also suggested Prime Minister Khan to leverage Pakistan’s unique voice to raise awareness for increasing global support for smallholder farmers.

Pakistan has a robust partnership with the Gates Foundation, including, inter alia, Gates Foundation’s continued support to the Ehsaas Programme, which helps the low-income segment of Pakistan’s population.