Islamabad, In a pivotal meeting at the Global Health Security Summit, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to enhance their cooperation in the health sector. The meeting, held in Islamabad, saw discussions on various aspects of health care and a mutual commitment to address pressing health challenges.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting was led by Federal Health Minister Dr. Nadeem Jan for Pakistan and Minister Dr. Qalandar Ebad for Afghanistan. Both ministers acknowledged the critical need for a robust healthcare system and emphasized providing essential health services to communities in need. A key focus of the discussion was the eradication of poliovirus, with both countries expressing a shared commitment to tackle this challenge. This collaboration is seen as a crucial step toward achieving a polio-free region.

The leaders agreed to employ innovative strategies and enhance government ownership to build community confidence. Additionally, they explored opportunities for expanding pharmaceutical collaboration, with the Afghan Minister highlighting the investments by Pakistani pharma manufacturers in Afghanistan’s pharmaceutical sector.

The meeting also covered the exchange and training of medical professionals. The Afghan side proposed expanding enrollment quotas for Afghan students in Pakistani medical universities, reflecting a deepening of educational ties in the health sector. Dr. Qalandar Ebad expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s ongoing support in developing Afghanistan’s healthcare infrastructure.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed issues related to visas for Afghan patients seeking treatment in Pakistan. Federal Secretary Interior, Mr. Aftab Durrani, joined the discussion to deliberate on this matter, indicating a holistic approach to healthcare collaboration that extends beyond medical services to encompass patient accessibility and mobility.