His Excellency Tarik Ali Khan, Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan, visited the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) and was received by the Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio, Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, alongside core group members and representatives from UNICEF and WHO.
Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq acknowledged Canada’s longstanding support for polio eradication in Pakistan, noting a 99% reduction in cases since 1994 and the vital role of more than 400,000 vaccinators who go door to door during every campaign. She highlighted that over half of these vaccinators are women and praised Canada’s leadership in promoting gender equality, a priority that aligns closely with Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts. “As we near eradication, sustaining momentum through continued collaboration and investment is vital to ensure no child ever faces paralysis again,” she said.
National Coordinator Anwar Ul Haq provided an update on the current situation, reporting positive progress compared with last year and outlining ongoing operational priorities. His Excellency Tarik Ali Khan reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to protecting children in Pakistan, expressed deep interest in the program’s operational challenges, and praised the dedication of frontline workers, particularly the thousands of women who are essential to every vaccination drive.
The visit underscored shared resolve to finish the job and secure a polio-free future for every child. Continued international collaboration, targeted investment, and support for frontline teams remain central to sustaining the gains achieved by Pakistan’s polio eradication programme.
