Islamabad, Aug 9 (Prensa Latina) The government of Pakistan is working to eradicate poliomyelitis in the country by 2016, although it admits that it will be a difficult task, due to the actions against the vaccination campaign by the armed opposition in tribal zones.

In statements to reporters, Health Minister Saira Afzal Tarar admitted that the many polio cases reported in Tribal Areas under Federal Administration are the result, in part, of the difficulties the State is facing to work there, due to insurgent attacks.

The Tirah Valley, in the tribal region of North Waziristan, is a constant source of infection, said the official in reference to one of bastions of the Pakistani Taliban, who reject the official immunization programs.

As part of the strategy to eradicate the disease, First Minister Nawaz Sharif set up a three-member immunization committee, she noted.

Tarar warned that authorities are also facing problems in the southwestern province of Baluchistan, where armed separatist groups operate.

Of the country's 12 districts with a high risk of polio, four belong to that territory.

In June, the government of Baluchistan submitted a draft bill to the local parliament to declare parents' refusal to vaccinate their children against poliomyelitis a crime.

Along with Afghanistan and Nigeria, Pakistan is one of three nations where polio is still endemic.