On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed their commitment to press freedom and importance of credible journalism.
In his message, President Zardari said: “A free, independent and diverse media is not a threat to a confident nation, rather a proof of one.” He, however, also noted that this brings with it a responsibility and journalists must maintain accuracy and balance.
“Public trust, the most valuable asset of free press, must be earned, protected and never taken for granted,” he said.
He acknowledged the role of the Pakistani media in the conflict with India.
Zardari acknowledged the challenges facing press freedom, including disinformation, misinformation and artificial intelligence. He recognised that globally journalists face harassment, legal intimidation, economic pressure and physical danger.
Zardari emphasised that Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of the press, subject to reasonable legal restrictions.
The president urged the federal and provincial governments to ensure enabling laws and a safe enviornment for the media.
Zardari also expressed concern over global media particularly social media promoting “might-is-right agendas.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasised the importance of accurate, impartial, and unbiased information. PM Shehbaz stressed the responsibility of journalists to counter fake news and propaganda and to uphold professional ethics.
Shehbaz highlighted the role of credible journalism. He lauded the national media for its responsible coverage during critical moments, such as the conflict with India in 2025. The prime minister also acknowledged the evolving media landscape, emphasising the need for media institutions to adapt to digital transformation responsibly.
“In this changing environment, the media has an important responsibility to effectively project Pakistan’s national identity and perspective on the global stage. Media institutions must adapt to digital transformation with both speed and a strong sense of responsibility,” he said.
