President Asif Ali Zardari has extended warm greetings to journalists and media workers of Pakistan on World Press Freedom Day while stressing on the country’s commitment to freedom of the press.
In an official message on X, the President of Pakistan stated, “This year’s theme, ‘Shaping a Future at Peace’, underscores a fundamental truth that peace cannot be built without truth.”
President Zardari mentioned challenges to press freedom in modern times, suggesting that artificial intelligence (AI), although resourceful, carries a major risk.
He added that journalists are not safe in today’s world while being constantly exposed to threats like physical danger, legal intimidation and economic pressure.
In light of the growing influence of AI and deepfakes, the President talked about the role of global media and non state actors such as tech giants and big businesses in promoting racist and populist-fascist agenda.
The President also stated that Article 19 of the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees the right to freedom of the press subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by the law.
“A free, independent and diverse media is not a threat to a confident nation, rather a proof of one”, he added.
In his closing remarks, President Zardari said that the country is facing urgency with “deliberate campaigns of falsehood targeting Pakistan.”
He mentioned Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos when the nation stood united and called it a demonstration of military resolve and a reaffirmation of sovereignty.
The President finally praised the role of the country’s media against misinformation targeting Pakistan.
Read more: Pakistan Connect brings top journalists together for Marka-e-Haq panel
