Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to complete eradication of polio from the country by 2026.
This determination was expressed by Munir Akram, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations, while addressing a special focus session on polio eradication at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
He said that the country is currently conducting the largest polio eradication initiative in the world, involving 340,000 polio workers, the majority of whom are women.
He highlighted that despite facing several hurdles, substantial progress has been made through the implementation of the National Emergency Action Plan (2020) for Polio Eradication.
The ambassador said that despite challenges like the aftermath of the 2022 floods, Pakistan had significantly reduced polio cases to six in 2023. With a target of immunizing 45 million children this year, Pakistan launched the National Immunization Day campaign.
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Acknowledging the progress made in polio eradication, Ambassador Munir Akram stressed the importance of continued cooperation and financial support from global partners. He said that Pakistan needs $205 million for the polio program this year, with a shortfall of $95 million. He urged donors and partners to contribute generously to ensure the success of polio eradication efforts and prevent any child from missing out on immunization due to lack of funds.
