New York: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with Bill Gates, Chair of the Gates Foundation, during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 2026). The meeting focused on the Gates Foundation’s support for polio eradication, public health initiatives, and potential collaboration in digital innovation and agriculture.

According to Press Information Department, Prime Minister Sharif acknowledged the Gates Foundation’s recent visit to Pakistan and expressed gratitude for its longstanding assistance in polio eradication and other health-related endeavors. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to eliminating polio and noted the Foundation’s role in this effort. Mr. Gates commended Pakistan’s progress under the Prime Minister’s leadership and emphasized the importance of eradicating polio to protect future generations.

The conversation also touched on broadening collaboration in public health, agriculture, and digital innovation. Prime Minister Sharif detailed the government’s agricultural reforms, highlighting innovation and biotechnology. Both parties agreed to explore opportunities in developing improved seeds, livestock genetics, and emerging agricultural technologies.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthen partnerships supporting sustainable development and technological advancement in Pakistan. Prime Minister Sharif extended an invitation to Mr. Gates to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.