Islamabad, In a call to action on World Polio Day, Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar stressed the need to intensify measures to ensure that Pakistan becomes a polio-free nation. During a ceremony in Islamabad, he highlighted that while 99 percent of the world has eradicated the disease, Pakistan and Afghanistan remain exceptions.

According to a news release by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, PM Kakar praised the Pakistan Polio Programme for its unwavering efforts and commended health workers for their exceptional dedication in fighting the poliovirus. He underlined the importance of vaccinating every child to prevent the potential life-altering effects of the virus.

The Prime Minister emphasized that as the world aims for total eradication by 2024, the responsibility on Pakistan’s shoulders is immense. “Children in Pakistan and Afghanistan are deserving of a healthy childhood, akin to children everywhere,” he stated.

During the ceremony, Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar also acknowledged the sacrifices of polio workers and security personnel, expressing gratitude for their relentless service. He extended thanks to global partners for their continued support in Pakistan’s battle against polio.

In a symbolic gesture of appreciation, the Prime Minister distributed shields to polio workers and awarded certificates of recognition to families of security officials who lost their lives in the polio eradication campaign.