IDF President Prof. Peter Schwarz Meets Pakistan’s Prime Minister to Strengthen Diabetes Advocacy

IDF President Prof. Peter Schwarz Meets Pakistan’s Prime Minister to Strengthen Diabetes Advocacy The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) continues to strengthen its engagement with national leadership to advance diabetes awareness, prevention, and care. As part of these efforts, **IDF President Prof. Peter Schwarz met with the Honourable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Shehbaz Sharif, last week.** The high-level meeting marked an important opportunity to highlight the growing burden of diabetes and the need for sustained political commitment to address this major public health challenge. Engagement between international diabetes leadership and national decision-makers plays a vital role in promoting stronger health policies, improving access to quality diabetes care, and supporting initiatives aimed at preventing and managing diabetes. The visit was facilitated by the Pakistan Endocrine Society (PES), an IDF Member Association in Pakistan. The Society’s role in facilitating this engagement reflects the importance of collaboration between national professional organizations and the global diabetes community in bringing diabetes-related priorities to the attention of policymakers. Diabetes remains a significant public health concern in Pakistan, requiring coordinated action across healthcare systems, government institutions, professional associations, and communities. Strengthening awareness, promoting early diagnosis, improving access to essential medicines and treatment, and supporting people living with diabetes are critical components of an effective national response. The meeting also highlights the importance of high-level advocacy in ensuring that diabetes receives appropriate attention on national health agendas. Collaboration between the Government of Pakistan, the Pakistan Endocrine Society, and the International Diabetes Federation can contribute to advancing shared priorities in diabetes prevention, care, and management. The IDF-MENA Regional Office welcomes this important engagement and acknowledges the valuable role of the Pakistan Endocrine Society in facilitating dialogue between international diabetes leadership and national policymakers. Through continued collaboration, advocacy, and political commitment, the diabetes community can work towards stronger health systems and better outcomes for people living with diabetes across Pakistan and the wider Middle East and North Africa region.