Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met Bill Gates, Chairman of the Gates Foundation, in New York during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The prime minister thanked the foundation for its generous support during the 2025 floods and recalled its vital role during the devastating 2022 floods.
Shehbaz praised the Gates Foundation’s ongoing assistance in Pakistan’s fight against polio, immunization efforts, nutrition improvement, and financial inclusion. He emphasized that polio eradication remains a top government priority and stressed the importance of the foundation’s partnership for success.
Read more: Bill Gates pledges $1.6 billion to protect poor children from measles and other diseases
The prime minister also highlighted Pakistan’s economic reforms, including cashless digitization and efforts toward economic recovery. He acknowledged the foundation’s practical and positive support in these initiatives. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation in health, nutrition, digital transformation, and broader socio-economic development.
Read more: Shehbaz, Yunus unite to strengthen Pakistan-Bangladesh ties
In a separate meeting, PM Shehbaz met Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh. The two leaders exchanged views on strengthening Pakistan-Bangladesh ties, focusing on trade expansion, regional connectivity, and people-to-people contacts.
The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering relations based on mutual respect, tolerance, and trust, aiming for peace and regional development. Professor Yunus appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and emphasized enhancing cooperation in trade, culture, and connectivity.