Aseefa honoured with Soft Diplomacy Award for efforts to eradicate polio

KARACHI: First Lady of Pakistan Aseefa Bhutto Zardari was honoured with the Soft Diplomacy Award at a ceremony hosted by the UAE Consulate in Karachi on Tuesday in commemoration of Pakistan’s Independence Day.

The Humanitarian Award was presented in recognition of her tireless efforts for eradicating polio and her successful lobbying of the UAE government to support polio vaccination drives in Balochistan.

Under the initiatives of the UAE Consulate’s Soft Diplomacy programme, this award celebrates individuals who have significantly contributed to strengthening diplomatic and humanitarian ties between Pakistan and the UAE.

Aseefa Bhutto Zardari’s advocacy has been pivotal in securing the UAE’s assistance in one of Pakistan’s most critical public health challenges—the fight against polio.

In her acceptance speech, she expressed her deep gratitude for the recognition and reiterated her unwavering commitment to the cause of polio eradication. She emphasized the importance of international cooperation in health initiatives and praised the UAE government for its steadfast support in the fight against polio in Pakistan, particularly in the vulnerable regions of Balochistan.

Addressing the ongoing battle against polio, she emphasized, “The fight against polio is one that every Pakistani should fight to secure a better, brighter future for our children. It pains me that we are one of the two countries in the world still unable to eradicate this menace. I remain committed to this fight, to a polio-free Pakistan. I must acknowledge that the UAE has stood steadfast in its support for a polio-free Pakistan.”

She also highlighted the strong ties between Pakistan and the UAE, acknowledging the UAE’s consistent support in various crises: “Pakistan has been fortunate to count the UAE as one of its friends, and we have always relied on your support in times of trouble. Be it our fight against polio, devastating earthquakes, or catastrophic floods, you have stood beside us, at the forefront, reminding us that we are not alone.”

She further remarked on the enduring relationship between the two nations, stating, “As the UAE has gone from strength to strength under dynamic leadership, so has our friendship. And many individuals, not least the honorable Consul General here, have worked hard to further and better these bilateral ties. On a personal level, our family’s relationship with the UAE has been an immense source of happiness for us over many years. For me, Dubai remains my second home.

I cherish the years spent there and look forward to my visits even now.” The event, held at the UAE Consulate Karachi was attended by diplomats and representatives from various sectors who have contributed to enhancing Pakistan-UAE relations. First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari and Faryal Talpur also took part in a plantation drive under the Green Pakistan Initiative.