ISLAMABAD, Tuesday, November 18, 2025 (WNP): The Government of Japan has announced a fresh grant of US$3.5 million to help Pakistan procure essential oral polio vaccines, reaffirming its long-standing support for the country’s polio eradication efforts.

The Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) will use the funding to secure more than 24 million vaccine doses for nationwide immunization campaigns in 2026.

Pakistan remains one of only two countries in the world where poliovirus transmission has yet to be interrupted. In 2025 alone, the country has reported 30 cases. In response, the Government of Pakistan and global partners have launched the National Emergency Action Plan 2025–26 under the Roadmap to Zero, aiming to eliminate the disease through intensified vaccination campaigns. Each national drive targets more than 45 million children under the age of five, supported by over 400,000 frontline health workers.

“This partnership represents more than financial assistance; it reflects solidarity and shared purpose,” said Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication. “Every dose of vaccine and every outreach effort supported through Japan’s contribution brings us closer to a polio-free Pakistan.”

Japan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Akamatsu Shuichi, reaffirmed his country’s sustained commitment to Pakistan’s health priorities, noting that protecting children from preventable diseases remained a core pillar of Japan’s development cooperation. “Through this support, we renew our commitment to stand with Pakistan, UNICEF and all partners working tirelessly toward our shared goal of eradicating polio,” he said.

JICA Pakistan’s Chief Representative, Naoaki Miyata, stressed the importance of timely vaccination and the Government of Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring that every child receives essential protection. He expressed confidence that Japan’s support would be effectively utilized through the dedication of frontline health workers and the engagement of communities.

UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, Pernille Ironside, said Japan’s continued support remained “instrumental” in sustaining progress against polio. “This contribution will help ensure that every child, no matter where they live, receives the polio vaccine,” she added.

Japan has been a long-standing partner of Pakistan’s polio eradication programme. Since 1996, it has provided more than US$245 million in grants and loans through UNICEF, helping protect millions of children across the country.