US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker calls on federal health minister Mustafa Kamal to discuss bilateral cooperation in health sector

Celina Ali

Islamabad: The U.S. Chargé d’Affaires to Pakistan, Ms. Natalie A. Baker, along with her delegation, Wednesday called on Federal Minister for Health, Mr. Mustafa Kamal, to discuss bilateral collaboration and issues of mutual interest in the health sector.

During the meeting, Minister Mustafa Kamal emphasized the strong and enduring ties between Pakistan and the United States, describing them as “deep and resilient.” He lauded the continued support and contributions of the U.S. government in Pakistan’s health sector, particularly in areas such as maternal and child health, disease prevention, and health system strengthening.

Ms. Baker briefed the Health Minister on ongoing U.S. supported health initiatives and reiterated the commitment of the U.S. Government, as well as American private sector entities to serve as strategic partners in Pakistan’s health sector reforms.

Both leaders appreciated the longstanding partnership in health and reaffirmed their shared interest in further expanding collaboration to strengthen healthcare services for the people of Pakistan.

Minister Kamal shared that the Ministry of National Health Services has developed a comprehensive roadmap aimed at improving and strengthening the country’s healthcare system. He noted that Pakistan’s rapidly growing population poses a significant challenge and projected that the country is set to become the world’s fourth most populous nation by 2030.

Highlighting public health challenges, the Minister pointed out Pakistan’s high growth rate needs to be reduced to ensure sustainable growth. He also expressed concern over the absence of effective sewage treatment systems, stating that 68% of diseases in Pakistan stem from the consumption of contaminated water.

Minister Kamal emphasized that the provision of clean drinking water is a top national priority. He stated that the government is taking concrete steps to introduce and implement sewage treatment systems across the country to address this critical issue.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing their commitment to continue working together to achieve shared public health goals and improve the well-being of the Pakistani population.