PM Shehbaz: Govt must protect, enhance press freedom
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated his government’s resolve to ensure press freedom and create a suitable environment for media’s operation
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day being commemorated on May 3, he stated, “I pay my heartfelt tributes to journalists, columnists, reporters, editors, broadcasters and all those associated with the field of media in Pakistan and the world over for their selfless services.
“The conscientious professionalism of media practitioners is in the best interest of an informed and enlightened society.
“Credible journalism is built on the timely dissemination of correct, impartial and unbiased information,” he said.
“It is the duty of all journalists to abide by professional ethics, by countering propaganda, fake news and by effectively discouraging the spread of unverified information,” he stated. “Journalists are not only the custodians of professional standards, but also the custodians of the values of society.”
“This year we are marking the World Press Freedom Day under the theme ‘Shaping a Peaceful Future’, he said. This theme is well suited to the callings of our time. “Journalists have a right to work in a dignified, safe and enabling environment.”
“Today, you cannot get peace through diplomacy alone. The availability of genuine information, responsible journalism and informed public discourse have a significant role in building lasting peace globally. The media has a huge capacity to foster positive interaction and improve diplomatic, economic and social relations between countries. “Accurately representing perspectives often helps resolve complex issues, and this is a hallmark of responsible journalism,” he said.
He said Pakistan is a peace-loving country and it always gives preference to communication and negotiations whether it is to address the differences of opinion or to resolve the knotty disputes.
Pakistan remains a beneficial contributor to de-escalation, diplomacy and norms of stability in the current global environment. In this regard, international media has appreciated Pakistan’s positive initiatives. He further said, “The national media has also shown commendable responsibility during critical moments of conflict including Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos besides during peacetime and on the front of diplomacy.”
“Media played a role in a collective national response, strengthened unity and presented Pakistan’s stance with clarity and precision at those defining moments in national history,” the Prime Minister remarked. The media delivered updated facts to the public, effectively refuting falsehoods. Those decisive moments were not only a reflection of the capabilities of our armed forces, but also of the strength of national solidarity, for which responsible media played a critical role.”
“We also remember today the journalists who lost their lives in the line of duty, he said. Their courage reminds us that press freedom is a precious and irreplaceable asset.
The media landscape is changing rapidly because of technological advances. Digital media are increasingly a key locus of public opinion formation at home and abroad. In this changing context, media has a great responsibility to reflect Pakistan’s national identity and perspective effectively to the world. “Media institutions need to catch up with the digital transformation with speed and a great sense of responsibility,” he added.
He claimed fake news and coordinated misinformation tactics were a real threat to national cohesiveness and global confidence. It is vital that the delivery of news is quick and credible. “I call on all journalists to uphold the highest standards of verification, integrity and professionalism, so that in an age of digital rapid fire, competition is never at the expense of truth.”
“The media mirrors our social, political and economic diversity, as well as an important role in the promotion of national unity and stability. Journalism is a powerful tool to bring to the fore public issues of social and economic importance and to raise public awareness’, he said.
“Let us renew our collective resolve to protect journalistic freedom,” he urged. In this sense the government shall continue to play its role, with the media discharging its duty with truth and honesty. Together we will endeavour to develop a strong Pakistan, a Pakistan that is peaceful, confident and respected in the world.”