Protection of needy people is state’s obligation: PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday said that in difficult times, the focus and thought of his government were the needy and hapless persons.

He expressed these views during a meeting with the focal person of panahgahs (shelter homes) Nasimur Rehman, who called on the prime minister here and the situation in the backdrop of the coronavirus and the related arrangements were discussed in detail.

The premier emphasised that protection of the needy people was the state’s obligation and the government’s top priority ‘and in difficult times, they are the focus and attention of ours and in more difficult times, we care more for them’.

He directed the focal person that more attention should be paid to food, healthcare and other facilities for the poor and unassisted persons of the society. He also emphasised that the affluent people should be involved to further expand the network of shelter homes.

The prime minister was of the view that improvements in the management of shelters and the increase in their number would be sustained only when philanthropists would actively participate in the campaign.

Meanwhile, Ms Yan Chen, Managing Director, Challenge Group of Companies from China called on Prime Minister Imran Khan here and donated 15,000 protection suits to be used by Pakistani doctors and para-medical staff while dealing with the coronavirus COVID-19 cases.

Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday conveyed sincere gratitude to China for supporting Pakistan in helping containing COVID-19, saying the medical equipment provided by China will greatly strengthen Pakistan's capacity. The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan's support and solidarity with the people of China in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Speaking on the occasion, Chinese ambassador thanked the prime minister for Pakistan’s support and underlined that the Chinese government and leadership remained firmly committed to supporting Pakistan in combating COVID-19, as the highest priority.

Chairman NDMA, Lt. Gen. Muhammad Afzal and Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing were also present on the occasion.

The Chinese ambassador informed the prime minister that production of these protection suits will soon start in Lahore.

In a related development, during his visit to Isolation Centre here, Prime Minister Imran Khan performed earth-breaking of Isolation Hospital and

Infectious Diseases Treatment Centre that will be established at Islamabad by FWO. The coronavirus Isolation Centre consists of 50 beds.