Pakistan’s Polio Eradication Focal Person, Ayesha Raza Farooq, has expressed appreciation to Saudi Arabia for its reaffirmed $500 million commitment to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).
This funding aims to combat wild poliovirus in Pakistan and Afghanistan, the only two countries where the disease remains endemic. In 2024, Pakistan reported 74 polio cases, a significant increase from six cases in 2023. The funds will support vaccination efforts to protect children against this debilitating disease.
Farooq conveyed her gratitude during the Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to eradicate polio. Despite challenges such as vaccine misinformation and attacks on vaccination teams, Pakistan remains committed to eliminating polio with the support of international partners.
