Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Health Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath has called for the termination of the Additional Safeguard Policy (ASP) imposed by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, stating that Pakistan has significantly strengthened its financial management, governance, and accountability systems for health programs.
Speaking during discussions with Global Fund representatives, Dr. Bharath said Pakistan has made substantial progress in improving transparency, procurement procedures, financial oversight, and program implementation. He emphasized that the country’s healthcare institutions are now better equipped to manage Global Fund-supported projects without the need for additional safeguard measures.
The Additional Safeguard Policy is a special mechanism introduced by the Global Fund in countries where there are concerns regarding financial management or governance. Under the policy, the Global Fund applies enhanced oversight to ensure that grant resources are used effectively and transparently. Pakistani officials argue that the country’s improved governance framework justifies the removal of these extra restrictions.
Dr. Bharath highlighted Pakistan’s continued commitment to combating HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB), and malaria, noting that the government has expanded disease surveillance, improved diagnostic services, strengthened treatment programs, and increased collaboration with provincial health departments and international partners.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to life-saving medicines, diagnostic facilities, and preventive services for patients affected by HIV and tuberculosis. He also stressed the importance of maintaining strong partnerships with the Global Fund and other development organizations to accelerate progress toward disease control and elimination.
Officials said Pakistan remains committed to meeting international standards of financial accountability and program management while continuing efforts to strengthen the national healthcare system. They expressed hope that the Global Fund would review Pakistan’s progress and consider lifting the Additional Safeguard Policy, allowing greater national ownership and flexibility in implementing health programs.
The Global Fund has been one of Pakistan’s largest international partners in supporting programs to prevent and treat HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. Government officials believe that ending the ASP would further strengthen cooperation, streamline funding mechanisms, and improve the efficiency of health interventions benefiting millions of people across the country.
