https://twitter.com/home https://www.facebook.com/Shabbir.Hussain191By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, August 21(Diplomatic Star): Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo on Monday reaffirmed his organization’s decades-long partnership with Pakistan in the fight to eradicate polio, describing the campaign as “a collective responsibility that unites nations.”
Arezzo, on one of his first official visits since assuming office, toured the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) in Islamabad, accompanied by senior Rotary leaders Holger Knaack and Michael McGovern.
The delegation was briefed on Pakistan’s progress toward polio eradication and the challenges that remain in the final phase of the campaign.
Strengthening an Enduring Partnership
Pakistani officials welcomed the visit as a powerful signal of Rotary’s global solidarity with Pakistan. They noted that the partnership has been pivotal in reducing polio cases nationwide. “Rotary’s support has been instrumental in driving down polio cases.
Their presence here today underscores their commitment to Pakistan and to a polio-free world,” officials said.
President Arezzo praised Pakistan’s health workers and political leadership for maintaining momentum against polio. “Rotary has stood shoulder to shoulder with Pakistan for decades. Together, we are closer than ever to reaching the finish line.
Unity is our greatest strength, particularly as we confront the last remaining challenges and secure the resources required for eradication,” he stated.
Encouraging Progress
Health authorities at the NEOC reported a sharp decline in polio cases this year, citing stronger monitoring systems, broader vaccination coverage, and enhanced community outreach.
Sustained political will and close coordination between federal and provincial governments were credited as key factors in the improved outcomes.
Pakistan, along with Afghanistan, remains one of the last two countries where wild poliovirus continues to circulate.
However, intensified immunization drives and strengthened surveillance have built cautious optimism among experts that the disease can soon be eliminated.
Confronting the Last Hurdles
Despite progress, polio remains entrenched in some parts of South Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where mistrust, security challenges, and difficult terrain limit access to children.
During discussions, Rotary leaders and Pakistani officials reviewed strategies to overcome these obstacles, including community trust-building and countering misinformation about vaccines.
“Our focus must be on reaching every child, no matter how remote or difficult the circumstances. The last mile is always the hardest, but also the most rewarding,” said Michael McGovern, Chair of Rotary’s International PolioPlus Committee.
Recognition and Gratitude
On behalf of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, officials expressed deep gratitude to Rotary for its steadfast partnership.
They also paid tribute to Mr. Aziz Memon, National PolioPlus Chair for Pakistan, for his leadership in mobilizing resources and sustaining advocacy for eradication efforts.
Rotary has been central to the global fight against polio since launching its PolioPlus program in 1985, contributing over $2.6 billion and mobilizing volunteers worldwide.
In Pakistan, Rotary has supported vaccination campaigns, enhanced surveillance systems, and provided essential resources for frontline workers.
Global Unity for a Polio-Free Future
In his remarks, President Arezzo warned against complacency at this critical stage. “With polio cases at historic lows, we must not allow any lapse in commitment. Global unity and sustained political will are essential to ensure success,” he said.
Holger Knaack, former Rotary International President, echoed this sentiment, stressing that the lessons learned in Pakistan extend beyond polio.
“The fight against polio has strengthened health systems, improved immunization infrastructure, and shown the power of international partnerships. Its eradication will be a lasting legacy for global health,” he said.
Nearing the Finish Line
Observers noted that Arezzo’s visit comes at a decisive moment for the global eradication campaign. Pakistan’s continued success is seen as crucial to ending polio worldwide.
The Rotary delegation’s presence was viewed as both a vote of confidence and a reminder of the shared responsibility to finish the job.
For Pakistan, eradicating polio remains not only a health milestone but also a symbol of resilience and global solidarity. Officials pledged to maintain their commitment until no child remains vulnerable to the virus.
As the visit concluded, both Rotary and Pakistani leaders reaffirmed their determination to cross the “last mile” together. With renewed commitments, sustained strategies, and continued international support, a polio-free Pakistan is now within reach.
