On February 13, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s commitment to integrating Radio Pakistan with modern technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, to enhance its role in public service, education, health and national development. The pledge was made in his message marking World Radio Day, with President Asif Ali Zardari also reiterating support for modernising the national broadcaster.

In his message, the prime minister highlighted that Radio Pakistan has been a pivotal medium of communication since the nation’s inception, playing a crucial role in uniting the country, enhancing information accessibility, and raising public awareness. He emphasised the historical significance of radio in promoting agricultural development, environmental consciousness, cultural activities, and public enlightenment in Pakistan.

Reflecting on the digital transformation globally, the prime minister noted that radio is evolving to meet modern-day demands. He stated that this year’s World Radio Day theme, ‘Radio and Artificial Intelligence’, exemplifies the potential of combining technology with human creativity to create more effective and inclusive communication systems.

The prime minister said that practical steps were being taken to adopt cutting-edge technology, equip the younger generation with modern skills and align the media sector with international standards. He added that under the government’s Digital Pakistan Vision, innovation in the media and information technology sectors was being promoted to enable the country to attain a prominent position in the fields of knowledge and technology.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, in their separate messages, emphasised the need to harmonise Radio Pakistan and other media organisations with contemporary requirements. They called for efforts to ensure that national media institutions continue to serve as strong mediums of truth, responsibility and national cohesion.