ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have reaffirmed their dedication to promoting press freedom in Pakistan, marking World Press Freedom Day with calls for a responsible and free media landscape.

In separate statements, both leaders paid homage to journalists globally, with a special nod to those in Pakistan for their unwavering pursuit of truth. President Zardari highlighted the media’s crucial role in promoting dialogue and uncovering corruption, while Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the importance of protecting freedom of expression without allowing media misuse for spreading falsehoods or propaganda.

The observance of World Press Freedom Day, themed “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” served as a reminder of the responsibilities governments have towards maintaining a free press.

Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, echoed these sentiments, describing press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy and human rights protection. He commended Pakistani media for its role in exposing human rights violations in regions such as Indian-administered Kashmir and highlighted the media’s effectiveness in countering misinformation regarding India’s recent actions.

Tarar assured that the government is committed to the welfare and professional development of journalists, ensuring they can operate freely in a democratic society. He affirmed that media organizations are entitled to perform their duties without restrictions, highlighting the government’s ongoing dialogue with media entities to uphold press freedom.

The statements from Pakistan’s leadership underscore a commitment to fostering an environment where the press can thrive, emphasizing the integral role of journalism in strengthening democracy and national unity.