ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on World Press Freedom Day reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding and promoting press freedom, while highlighting the growing challenges faced by the media globally.

Observed this year under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace,” the day underscores the importance of truth, credible information, and responsible journalism in strengthening democracy and national unity.

In his message, President Zardari warned of increasing threats to press freedom, including misinformation, disinformation, misuse of artificial intelligence, and algorithmic manipulation by powerful tech platforms. He said such forces risk distorting public discourse and weakening democratic values.

Reaffirming constitutional guarantees under Articles 19 and 19-A, the president emphasised that a free press is vital for accountability and transparency. He noted that peace depends on truth, and truth relies on courageous journalism.

“Freedom brings responsibility. Accuracy must not be sacrificed for speed, and balance must not give way to partisanship,” he said, stressing that public trust remains the media’s most valuable asset.

He also praised the role of media during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, stating that responsible reporting helped counter false narratives and maintain national cohesion. The president paid tribute to journalists who lost their lives in the line of duty and called for stronger protections and safer working conditions.

Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded journalists worldwide for their contributions, saying that authentic, unbiased, and verified reporting forms the foundation of journalism. He urged media professionals to guard against propaganda, fake news, and unverified content.

The prime minister highlighted that responsible journalism plays a key role in shaping informed public opinion and promoting peace and international understanding. He also stressed the need for media to adapt to digital transformation while maintaining credibility and professional ethics.

Warning against the rise of disinformation campaigns, the premier reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and enabling environment for press freedom, adding that media can contribute positively to international relations, economic cooperation, and social harmony.