On February 16, Provincial Minister for Information and Culture, Punjab, Azma Bokhari, congratulated the newly elected office-bearers of the Punjab Union of Journalists (PUJ), reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to the protection and welfare of journalists. In her message, she extended best wishes to the newly elected President Naeem Hanif, Secretary Qamar Bhatti and the entire elected body.

In a congratulatory statement, the minister described the Punjab Union of Journalists as an institution with a long history of struggle for press freedom and the protection of journalists’ rights. She noted that PUJ has consistently played a leading role in highlighting and addressing the challenges faced by the journalist community and has represented journalists during difficult periods.

Azma Bokhari reiterated the Punjab government’s dedication to ensuring the protection, welfare and resolution of issues concerning journalists. She stated that under the leadership of Maryam Nawaz, the journalist community remains among the top priorities of the provincial administration and that practical measures to safeguard their interests will continue.

The minister expressed hope that the newly elected PUJ leadership would carry out its responsibilities with sincerity and professionalism, actively contribute to the protection of journalists’ rights and work towards strengthening journalistic values across the province.