Islamabad: On World Polio Day, the First Lady of Pakistan, Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating polio and protecting every child from preventable diseases.

The First Lady highlighted the progress Pakistan has made against polio, emphasizing that the task remains unfinished. She stated that the remaining cases serve as a reminder of the shared national responsibility, emphasizing that “each child missed is a child at risk.” She called for efforts to reach every home and community with the polio vaccine.

Recalling the legacy of her mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who launched Pakistan’s first nationwide polio eradication campaign in 1994, the First Lady noted that her mother’s vision continues to guide the national efforts to eliminate the disease.

Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari expressed a personal connection to the polio eradication campaign, remembering when her mother, as Prime Minister, personally administered the first polio drops to her. This moment marked the beginning of Pakistan’s national drive against polio and inspired her lifelong commitment to the mission.

She paid tribute to the health workers and security personnel involved in the national polio campaign, particularly the women vaccinators who travel to hard-to-reach areas. She acknowledged the courage and sacrifice of those who lost their lives in this cause, emphasizing that their efforts had brought Pakistan closer to a polio-free future.

The First Lady encouraged parents, caregivers, and community leaders to continue supporting vaccination efforts. She expressed hope that with collective effort, Pakistan can achieve a future free from polio—a goal owed to the next generation.

She concluded by urging unity and persistence until polio is fully eradicated from the country.