Statement by the Foundation on the Launch of Pakistan’s National Emergency Plan for Polio Eradication | Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

SEATTLE--The following quote is attributable to Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

“We commend the government of Pakistan on its commitment to stop the transmission of the polio virus in Pakistan. In just a year’s time, I have seen the tremendous progress that can take place  and I’m confident that with this plan, and the will to carry it out, Pakistan will be able to eliminate polio. This effort is essential to eradicating polio globally.  My colleagues and I are deeply committed to working closely with you to ensure success.”   

“The lives and health of children in Pakistan and throughout the world are at stake. We call on the government of Pakistan to hold a special polio summit to assess progress in six months and we stand by Pakistan as its partner in this important cause to rid the world of polio once and for all.”  

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Editor’s Note: The Gates Foundation has pledged more than US$1 billion to the global polio program in the last decade, including more than US$85 million for the eradication program in Pakistan.