Davo: Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, met Bill Gates on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, where discussions focused on Pakistan’s reform agenda, public health priorities, and enhanced cooperation with the Gates Foundation.

During the meeting, the finance minister expressed appreciation for the Gates Foundation’s longstanding support to Pakistan, particularly its critical role in polio eradication efforts. He acknowledged the Foundation’s continued partnership in addressing public health challenges and strengthening service delivery mechanisms across the country.

Bill Gates shared an overview of the Foundation’s current and future engagement in Pakistan and stressed the importance of sustained efforts to achieve complete polio eradication. Both sides emphasized close coordination with provincial governments and relevant stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of health initiatives, especially in high-risk and underserved areas.

Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb also thanked Bill Gates for the Foundation’s recent communication expressing support for the digitization of Pakistan’s taxation system, describing it as a key pillar of the government’s broader institutional reform programme. He noted that strengthening domestic resource mobilization through transparency and digital solutions remains a top priority, with progress being closely monitored at the highest levels.

Bill Gates underscored the critical role of efficient and transparent tax systems in achieving long-term economic self-reliance. He highlighted that digital tools could significantly improve tax collection, governance, and public service delivery. The finance minister agreed, adding that improved fiscal resilience has enhanced Pakistan’s ability to respond to economic pressures and climate-related challenges, reinforcing the importance of sustained reforms.

The discussion also explored opportunities for expanding collaboration in the health sector, including prospects for local vaccine production and strengthening health supply chains. Both sides welcomed continued dialogue with relevant ministries and development partners to identify practical and sustainable approaches that support public health outcomes and domestic capacity building.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of mutual commitment to continued engagement, built on trust, shared objectives, and a common focus on inclusive development. Both agreed that sustained cooperation would contribute meaningfully to Pakistan’s reform efforts and long-term socioeconomic stability.