DAVOS: Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb met Microsoft founder and Gates Foundation co-chair Bill Gates on the sidelines of the 26th Annual World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, where both sides agreed to further strengthen cooperation, particularly in the health sector.
During the meeting, the two leaders held detailed discussions on Pakistan’s ongoing reform agenda and key priorities in public health. They agreed to enhance collaboration with the Gates Foundation to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to the Ministry of Finance, the finance minister appreciated the long-standing support of the Gates Foundation in Pakistan, especially its critical role in polio eradication. He also acknowledged the foundation’s continued contribution towards improving healthcare services and addressing public health challenges.
Bill Gates briefed the finance minister on the foundation’s ongoing and upcoming initiatives in Pakistan and reaffirmed his commitment to continued cooperation.
He stressed the importance of sustained efforts to completely eradicate polio and noted that an effective tax system is essential for long-term economic self-reliance.
Both sides also discussed new avenues of cooperation in the health sector, including local vaccine manufacturing and strengthening supply chains.
It was agreed that consultations with relevant ministries and partners would continue, with both Muhammad Aurangzeb and Bill Gates reaffirming their commitment to close collaboration in the coming years, based on mutual trust, shared goals, and inclusive development.
