On the ‘Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day’ on Thursday, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to the advancement of the global momentum towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

This year’s theme, ‘Health: It’s on the government,’ underscores the pivotal role of governments in ensuring that no one has to choose between essential healthcare and basic necessities such as food, shelter, or education.

‘As a government, we recognize our duty as a moral imperative to make healthcare accessible to all citizens, regardless of socioeconomic status’, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in his message on the UHC Day on Thursday.

He said any compromise on health is a compromise on the security, prosperity, and development of our nation-an area where no risks can be taken.

He said in pursuit of this goal, our government has introduced transformative initiatives, such as the Sehat Sahulat Program, spearheaded by the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination under the banner of ‘Sehat Sub Kay Liye’ (Health for All).

This program, which has garnered international recognition from esteemed organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), provides free health coverage to millions of families, prioritizing the most vulnerable segments of society, the Prime Minister added.

He said additionally, we have made significant investments in healthcare infrastructure and ensured access to essential, life-saving medications, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Moving forward, Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to achieving the health-related targets outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, he added.

‘We will continue to collaborate with the United Nations and other global leaders to develop and strengthen frameworks that prioritize health as a fundamental human right’, the Prime Minister concluded.