President Zardari, PM Shehbaz Commitment to Press Freedom on World Press Freedom Day

On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the government’s strong commitment to protecting and promoting press freedom, while also highlighting the importance of responsible journalism in strengthening democracy and national unity.

The day is being observed this year under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace”, emphasizing the connection between peace, truth, and credible reporting.

In his message, President Zardari extended greetings to media workers around the world and warned about growing global threats to press freedom, including misinformation, disinformation, misuse of artificial intelligence, algorithmic manipulation, and influence from powerful digital platforms and social media companies. He noted that such factors can distort public opinion and weaken democratic values.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s constitutional guarantees under Articles 19 and 19-A, stating that a free press is essential for transparency, accountability, and democracy. He added that while freedom is vital, it must be balanced with responsibility, stressing that “accuracy must not be sacrificed for speed and balance must not give way to partisanship.”

The President further said that public trust is the most valuable asset of journalism and must always be protected. He also highlighted the importance of truthful journalism in maintaining peace and referred to Pakistan’s coordinated response during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, praising the media for countering false narratives and supporting national unity. He paid tribute to journalists who lost their lives in the line of duty and called for improved safety and legal protection for media workers.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to journalists and media professionals worldwide, stating that journalism plays a key role in creating an informed society. He emphasized that “authentic, unbiased, and verified reporting is the foundation of journalism,” while urging media professionals to avoid spreading propaganda, fake news, and unverified content.

He stressed that responsible journalism helps build peace, improves international understanding, and strengthens societal harmony. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the sacrifices of journalists who died while performing their duties and highlighted the need for adapting to digital transformation without compromising credibility.

Warning against the rising threat of fake news and disinformation campaigns, he urged journalists to maintain verification, integrity, and strong professional ethics. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and enabling environment for press freedom.

He further stated that the media can play a constructive role in strengthening international relations, promoting economic cooperation, and improving social harmony, adding that in the digital age, speed must never come at the cost of accuracy.