Federal Health Minister Dr. Mustafa Kamal and Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir Thursday reaffirmed their joint commitment to combat pressing public health issues, including polio, dengue, and counterfeit medicines, during a high-level meeting held in Islamabad, reported 24NewsHD TV channel Thursday.
The session was attended by Special Secretary Health Syed Waqarul Hassan, Additional Secretary Health, CEO DRAP, DG Health, and the President of PMDC, highlighting the gravity of the discussions.
Key challenges discussed included deficiencies in DRAP (Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan), nursing, family planning, and health and population programs, with both ministers vowing prompt action for the benefit of the people.
"All health issues will be addressed on a priority basis," asserted Mustafa Kamal, emphasising people-first policymaking.
A major point of consensus was the elimination of fake medicines, for which DRAP, under Kamal’s leadership, is introducing a modern barcode system. Every medicine will carry a scannable code enabling patients to verify its authenticity and price, a move hailed by Nazir as “transformational.”
“An effective and strong system has already been formed to wipe out counterfeit drugs,” said Kamal, adding that Pakistan Single Window now handles the online issuance of GMP certificates, CoPPs, and NOCs for medical exports, streamlining the pharma sector.
On polio, both ministers painted a sobering picture: Pakistan remains one of only two countries where the virus persists. Kamal announced a new strategy and policy to eradicate polio and urged a shift in societal mindset. “Convince the parents who’ve become enemies of their own children,” he said. Drawing a powerful parallel, he added: “Even in war-torn Palestine, mothers call vaccinators with whistles. Pakistani mothers must do the same.”
Khawaja Imran Nazir pledged Punjab’s full cooperation with federal policies. “After your arrival, I believe we’ll see substantial improvement in the health sector,” Nazir told Kamal, adding that Punjab is committed to eradicating polio, dengue, and counterfeit drugs in full alignment with federal directives.
The meeting concluded with both ministers agreeing to coordinate closely in the twin cities on dengue prevention and vowed to share resources and experience across provincial and federal lines.
“Wherever the provinces need, the federation will stand with them,” said Kamal. “Together, we will protect our people from disease, disinformation, and disaster.”