ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif has said mother and child safety through proper immunization and better nutrition is one of major priorities of the government.

The Prime Minister stated while talking to a high-level mission of Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization led by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Seth Berkley in Islamabad on Friday.

The Prime Minister said routine immunization is an important area and all the provincial governments have been directed to take effective measures for speeding up the process. The delegation appreciated the personal interest taken by the Prime Minister for the implementation of polio eradication programme.

They also appreciated the Punjab government for targeting 80% coverage in routine immunization in the province by year end. Minister of State for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Ms. Saira Afzal Tarar informed the Prime Minister that federal government would procure the vaccines through a National Procurement Committee having representatives from all the provinces.

Talking about the polio eradication initiative she said a concrete and robust plan has been put in place and its proper implementation would bring about drastic reduction in polio cases. DNA