ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan and Bill Gates, co-chair of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, on Wednesday discussed matters relating to Covid-19 response, polio eradication and climate change, and agreed to continue working together on the shared objectives.

In their telephonic conversation, they ag­­reed on the importance of urgently stopping the spread of coronavirus, polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases in Pakistan.

The prime minister appreciated the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for its work on fighting poverty and combating the Covid-19 pandemic and inequalities around the world.

Recalling his recent letter addressed to Bill Gates on climate change, Mr Khan ap­­prised the former of Pakistan’s flagship initiatives, including 10 Billion Tree Tsunami.

Mr Khan affirmed his commitment to strengthening efforts nationwide to achieve a polio-free Pakistan.

Bill Gates acknowledged Pakistan’s commitment to addressing climate change and agreed that the world must come together to face this global challenge.

Highlighting that food systems are particularly vulnerable to climate change, he emphasised that the world leaders should prioritise investments in agricultural research for adaptation.

Published in Dawn, April 29th, 2021