ISLAMABAD, Thursday, April 30, 2026 (WNP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday met a delegation from the Partnership for a Lead-Free Future and UNICEF, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding children’s health, eradicating polio, and addressing the harmful effects of lead exposure.

The delegation included Abdullah Fadil, Director of the Secretariat for a Lead-Free Future; Pernille Ironside, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan; and experts from Stanford University School of Medicine, Jenna Forsyth and Thomas Hird. Federal Ministers Ahsan Iqbal, Mustafa Kamal, and Ayesha Raja Farooq, along with senior officials, also attended the meeting.

Welcoming the delegation, the Prime Minister emphasized that protecting the future of Pakistan’s children remains a top government priority.

He reiterated that polio eradication is at the forefront of national efforts, expressing confidence that the disease would soon be completely eliminated from the country.

Highlighting the risks posed by lead exposure, the Prime Minister noted its serious impact on children’s mental and physical development, terming it a significant public health challenge. He assured that the government, in collaboration with international partners, is taking all necessary measures to prevent and mitigate the effects of lead.

The delegation appreciated the government’s initiatives under the Prime Minister’s leadership, particularly efforts aimed at protecting children from life-threatening diseases and improving outcomes in health, education, youth development, and information technology sectors.

During the meeting, delegation members shared findings from recent surveys conducted in Pakistan, outlining the health hazards of lead exposure and identifying areas where it is prevalent. They also stressed the need for increased public awareness regarding the dangers of lead and the importance of preventive measures.

The discussions underscored the importance of sustained cooperation between Pakistan and international partners to ensure a healthier and safer future for children.