Britain's Department for International Development (DFID) has announced to provide additional $7 million to support Pakistan's efforts to eradicate polio, according to an official statement. The funds will be channeled through the World Health Organization (WHO). A Memorandum of Understanding was signed in this regard between DFID head in Pakistan Yousaf Samiullah and WHO Country Director Dr Khalif Bile Mohamud while Minister for Health Muhammad Nasir Khan was also present on the occasion. The contribution comes in response to intensified polio eradication efforts this year, which have led to progress in curbing the disease. In 2007, 13 cases have been reported, compared to 40 cases in 2006. This latest contribution from the UK is part of DFID's ongoing support to polio eradication in Pakistan, following a previous commitment of $ 22.6 million in 2005 and 2006.
