ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme on Tuesday reaffirmed its determination to eradicate polio this year, as a high-level delegation from the Gates Foundation visited the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).
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The delegation, led by Chris Elias, President of Global Development, and Kathy Neuzil, Director of Polio at the Gates Foundation, was welcomed by Ms Ayesha Raza Farooq, Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio. She congratulated Dr Neuzil on her recent appointment and acknowledged her long-standing contributions to polio eradication efforts in Pakistan and global health initiatives.
A high-level delegation from the Gates Foundation visited the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) today.
Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio, warmly welcomed the delegation, which included Chris Elias, President of Global Development, and… pic.twitter.com/0xHtCE9aBa
— Pak Fights Polio (@PakFightsPolio) January 28, 2026
During the visit, the delegation was briefed in the NEOC control room by Coordinator Muhammad Anwarul Haq on the latest surveillance updates and ongoing immunisation campaigns. Ms Farooq emphasized that with strong government leadership and continued international support, Pakistan is progressing decisively toward achieving the “Roadmap to Zero Polio 2026.”
The programme expressed gratitude to the Gates Foundation and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) for their sustained backing, which has been instrumental in immunisation drives, surveillance, and awareness campaigns across the country.
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The visit also highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing collaboration with international partners to ensure polio eradication and to contribute to a polio-free world. The authorities reiterated that achieving zero polio remains a top health priority, with intensified vaccination campaigns and monitoring planned for high-risk areas throughout the year.