Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Gates Foundation Chair Bill Gates in New York on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The meeting focused on Pakistan’s efforts to eradicate polio and on expanding cooperation between the country and the Gates Foundation in public health, agriculture, digital innovation and artificial intelligence.
Sharif thanked the Gates Foundation for its longstanding support for Pakistan’s polio eradication program and highlighted its engagement in maternal and child health, nutrition, immunization, digitization and financial inclusion.
Bill Gates acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts and stressed that eliminating polio was vital to protecting future generations. He also welcomed Sharif’s involvement in guiding provincial governments on vaccination programs.

Agriculture and Artificial Intelligence on the Agenda
Sharif briefed Gates on Pakistan’s agricultural reforms, including initiatives involving innovation, biotechnology, climate resilience, research and capacity-building for farmers.
The two sides agreed to explore cooperation in improved seeds, livestock genetics and emerging agricultural technologies.
They also discussed opportunities to broaden their partnership in digital innovation and artificial intelligence, with both sides expressing a commitment to cooperation aimed at sustainable development and improved social outcomes.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Sharif invited Bill Gates to visit Pakistan.