Prime Minister's Focal Person on Polio Eradication, Ayesha Raza Farooq, said Japan's latest contribution represented solidarity as well as financial support.“Every dose of vaccine and every outreach effort supported through Japan's contribution brings us closer to a polio-free Pakistan. We are deeply grateful for Japan's continued confidence in our programme and our frontline workers,” she said.

Japan's Ambassador to Pakistan, Akamatsu Shuichi, reaffirmed his country's long-term support for Pakistan's health priorities.“Japan has always believed that protecting children from preventable diseases is one of the most important investments in a nation's future,” he said, adding that the new grant reflects Japan's commitment to working alongside Pakistan, UNICEF and other partners to end polio.

The funding will be channelled through UNICEF to support procurement and delivery of vaccines, further strengthening PEI's ability to sustain gains and interrupt virus circulation.

Naoaki Miyata, Chief Representative of JICA Pakistan, said vaccines remain one of the most effective ways to protect children and communities.“We are confident that this support will be used effectively through the dedication of frontline workers and the engagement of parents and communities,” he said.

UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, Pernille Ironside, described Japan's contribution as instrumental in protecting children across the country.“This contribution will help ensure that every child, no matter where they live, receives the polio vaccine,” she said, noting Japan's consistent partnership in strengthening Pakistan's health systems.

Japan has been supporting Pakistan's polio eradication efforts for nearly three decades. Since 1996, it has contributed more than US$245 million in grants and loans through UNICEF, helping protect millions of children from the crippling disease.