Press asked to work for national unity | Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)

Pakistan Press Foundation

Press asked to work for national unity

KARACHI, Sept 13: Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan has emphasised that stability of democratic institutions lay in national stability, progress and betterment of people. “A healthy press is also one of the pillars of democracy and its stability is as much essential like other co-factors,” he said while talking to different groups of newspaper editors and senior journalists, who met him separately at the Governor’s House on Saturday.

The governor expressed hope that newspapers and journals would keep national interest in view instead of promoting sensational news. He said that through constructive criticism and by creating awareness in the nation on different issues, the press could play its role of wiping out various ills from the society.

Dr Ibad observed that in spite of difference of opinion on issues, the stability of the country and its institutions, besides national cohesion, should be considered supreme, and added that to attract investment for economic progress, the country’s image should be positively projected.

He pointed out that unlike those of past governments, the policies of the present government were long-term and would continue till the completion of its agenda for economic development and stability.

He said that certain press reports and travel advises presented a false picture of the country, which he hoped would change when foreign investors would personally see the situation, and added that investors were showing interest in Karachi and other parts of Sindh for investment and joint ventures etc.

Dispelling media reports regarding his alleged differences with the Sindh chief minister, Dr Ibad claimed sindh government was working like a team and there existed healthy working relationship between him and the CM. “It would be better if we could use our abilities for positive and constructive activities,” he emphasised.

He informed the delegates about the steps being taken for elimination of Karo Kari and for establishment of academic peace in educational institutions. Dr Ibad called upon the newspapers to create public awareness and generate a realization among the people that ills of society could be rooted out by joint efforts of the people and the government. He assured the delegates of taking immediate steps for solving the problems faced in the field of journalism.-APP
Source: Dawn
Date:9/14/2003