Polio to be eradicated from Pakistan in next two years: Mamnoon

ISLAMABAD: President Mamnoon Hussain on Tuesday expressed the hope that polio virus would be eradicated from the country in the coming two years.
While talking to Chairman International Polio Plus Committee and Vice Chairman Rotary Foundation Michael K. McGovern, who called on him along with a delegation at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the president said that Pakistan is not responsible for the spread of polio but the elements which caused the spread of terrorism in the region. He reiterated that Pakistan is committed to eradication of polio virus and called upon international community to be considerate toward Pakistan and extend all possible cooperation in this regard so that Pakistan is able to work for the elimination of the crippling disease without facing problems. He emphasised that Pakistan’s commitment to polio eradication remains firm and resolute. He underscored that the polio eradication programme enjoys government ownership at the highest level. He highlighted that chief ministers of all the provinces are paying special attention to ensure that every child is reached by polio programme.
The president assured the delegation that he would personally call governors and urge them to remove administrative gaps for completely eradicating the virus. He mentioned that the government of Pakistan’s decisive action against terrorism has had a positive effect on initiative of polio eradication campaign. He appreciated the role of Rotary International as a major partner of the government of Pakistan in its campaign against polio virus.
Speaking on the occasion, Michael K. McGovern lauded the commitment and seriousness of efforts of the government of Pakistan for eradication of polio. He also assured of talking to UNICEF head for lifting travel restrictions imposed on Pakistan.
The delegation, among others, included Ms. Carol A. Pandak, Director Polio Plus Programme at Rotary International, Aziz Memon, National Chair, Pakistan Polio Plus Committee and high officials of President’s Secretariat. Later, the president underlined the need for building a mutually beneficial relationship between Pakistan and Cuba.
Talking to Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Cuba Kamran Shafi who called on him in Islamabad, the president emphasised on further strengthening political, economic and cultural bonds between the two countries. He stated that while bilateral trade between Pakistan and Cuba has increased substantially during the past years, it is still not at par with the potential that exists between the two countries. He noted that while trade is the domain of businessmen, it is the government’s job to provide a conducive environment for trade activities. He underlined the need for both countries to encourage traders to participate in the trade fairs held in the two countries not only to showcase their products but also to identify opportunities for expanding trade relations further.
The president called for focusing on the scope for building cooperation in other areas including medical research, disaster management, biotechnology, higher education, culture, sports and tourism. He highlighted that Pakistan could also benefit from Cuban experiences in the areas of medical science and health care.