PM Shehbaz, Bill Gates Reaffirm Commitment to Collaboration on Digital Economy, Health, and Social Development

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist **Bill Gates** have reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration in Pakistan’s **economic and social development**, particularly in the areas of **health, nutrition, resilience, financial inclusion, and economic digitalization**.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the **80th UN General Assembly session**, where both leaders engaged in discussions in a cordial atmosphere. Key areas of focus included **polio eradication, nutritional improvement, and humanitarian support for flood victims**.

Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed gratitude for the **Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s support** in polio eradication and enhancing nutritional standards. He also appreciated the foundation’s **relief efforts during the devastating 2022 floods** and praised its **recent assistance in response to the latest floods** in Pakistan.

Highlighting the importance of sustained efforts, the Prime Minister stressed the need for **continuous collaboration to achieve complete polio eradication**. He further acknowledged the foundation’s role in supporting **economic reforms and digitalization initiatives** in Pakistan.

Both sides reiterated their **resolve to strengthen partnerships** and work together to advance Pakistan’s **public health systems, resilience, and digital economy transformation**.