Business Recorder
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday paid tribute to journalists, commending their role in fostering an informed society and urging continued adherence to professional ethics amid growing concerns over misinformation. In a message issued on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, being observed today (Sunday), he said timely, accurate and impartial reporting remained the cornerstone of credible journalism. He added that media practitioners had a responsibility to counter propaganda, fake news and unverified information. He described journalists as custodians of professional standards and guardians of societal values, stressing that responsible journalism was essential to strengthening public trust. This year’s theme, “Shaping a Peaceful Future”, underscored the role of responsible media in promoting peace through credible information and informed public discourse, the prime minister said. “Peace is not achieved through diplomacy alone,” he noted, adding that accurate reporting and constructive engagement could help resolve complex issues and strengthen political, economic and social ties between countries. The prime minister said Pakistan remained committed to dialogue and negotiation in resolving disputes and continued to support regional stability, efforts he said had been acknowledged by international media. He also highlighted what he called the responsible role of the national media during periods of tension and military operations, including Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, saying journalists had helped counter misinformation and present Pakistan’s position clearly. PM Sharif paid tribute to journalists who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing press freedom as a “precious and invaluable asset”. Acknowledging the rapid transformation of the media landscape, he said digital platforms now played a central role in shaping public opinion, while warning that disinformation campaigns posed a threat to national cohesion and international credibility. He urged media organisations to prioritise verification, integrity and professionalism, stressing that speed in reporting must never come at the expense of truth. Reaffirming his government’s support for press freedom, the prime minister said efforts would continue to provide an enabling environment for the media, and called for a collective commitment to strengthen journalism and project a “peaceful, confident and respected” Pakistan globally. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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