The World Health Organization (WHO), the Government of Pakistan, and 20 leading business figures have launched Pakistan’s first WHO Public-Private Council to improve healthcare services, strengthen the country’s health system, and support national and global health goals.
The council was officially launched during a ceremony in Karachi attended by WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr Hanan Balkhy, WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng, Federal Secretary for Health Muhammad Aslam Ghauri, Council Chair Aziz Memon, and 20 founding members from the business and academic sectors.
Speaking at the event, Dr Hanan Balkhy said the council would bring together business leaders, philanthropists, and WHO to create long-term partnerships that improve healthcare across Pakistan. She said the collaboration would help combine financial resources, technology, expertise, and infrastructure to build a healthier and more prosperous future for the country.
Council Chair Aziz Memon said the initiative provides an opportunity for Pakistan’s business community to work alongside WHO in promoting public health. He added that by joining efforts under a structured partnership, the impact of individual contributions could be significantly increased.
Federal Secretary for Health Muhammad Aslam Ghauri said the government fully supports the new council and described it as an important step towards achieving universal health coverage under Pakistan’s National Health Strategy 2026–2035. He stressed that improving healthcare requires cooperation between the government, private sector, and other stakeholders.
WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships, saying business leaders can play a key role in supporting better healthcare through advocacy, innovation, and investment. He added that a healthier population is essential for a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan.
The newly established council is expected to strengthen cooperation between WHO, the government, and the private sector to improve health services and accelerate progress toward the country’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
