NEW YORK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Gates Foundation Chair Bill Gates discussed expanding cooperation in public health, agriculture, digital innovation and artificial intelligence during a meeting on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the meeting covered Pakistan’s efforts to eradicate polio, as well as maternal and child health, nutrition, immunisation, digitisation and financial inclusion.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to completely eliminating polio and thanked the Gates Foundation for its continued support. Gates stressed the importance of polio eradication in protecting future generations and appreciated the prime minister’s guidance to provincial governments on the vaccination programme.
The prime minister also briefed Gates on agricultural reforms, with a focus on innovation, biotechnology, climate resilience, research and capacity building for farmers.
The two sides agreed to explore cooperation in developing improved seeds, livestock genetics and emerging agricultural technologies. Shehbaz Sharif also expressed interest in expanding collaboration in public health, agriculture, digital innovation and artificial intelligence.
The meeting also highlighted opportunities to strengthen partnerships supporting sustainable development, technological advancement and improved social sector outcomes in Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif invited Bill Gates to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.
