Bill Gates Has Big Plans for Pakistan Agriculture

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Gates Foundation Chair Bill Gates discussed expanding cooperation in public health, agriculture, digital innovation and artificial intelligence during a meeting on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The Prime Minister’s Office said the meeting also covered Pakistan’s efforts on polio eradication, maternal and child health, nutrition, immunization, digitization and financial inclusion.

Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to completely eradicate polio and thanked the Gates Foundation for its longstanding support.

Gates stressed that polio eradication was vital to protecting future generations from the disease and appreciated the prime minister’s guidance to provincial governments on the polio vaccine program.

The prime minister also briefed Gates on agricultural reforms being undertaken by the government, with a focus on innovation, biotechnology, climate resilience, research and capacity building for farmers.

The two sides agreed to explore cooperation in developing improved seeds, livestock genetics and emerging agricultural technologies. Shehbaz also expressed interest in broadening collaboration in public health, agriculture, digital innovation and artificial intelligence.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continued engagement to strengthen partnerships supporting sustainable development, technological advancement and improved social sector outcomes.

Shehbaz also invited Gates to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.