Memon asks businessmen to invest in private TV, radio channels
ISLAMABAD- Minister for Information and Media Development, Nisar Memon has invited the country’s businessmen to come forward and invest in private radio and television channels and take benefit from the present government’s open media policy.
The opening of television and radio channels in private sector will not only create a competitive media environment but will also help in capturing the markets abroad for Pakistani products through satellite coverage, he stated this while addressing the businessmen convention.
President General Musharraf was the chief guest at the businessmen convention, organised by the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI). The minister said the government has already established the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to allow radio and television channels in private sector, adding, these channels are also entitled to telecast or broadcast news independently.
Nisar Memon said he has also asked PTV and Radio Pakistan to get them prepared for the competition with private channels because when the private sector enters in media, it brings an aggressive competition. The minister said the present government believes in the freedom of press, which is evident from the fact that the freedom of expression being enjoyed by media at present is unprecedented, adding, “presently our media is as free as in any big democratic state in the world”.
He said the government does not own any newspaper and the print media is completely free to give its critical views on various issues. “Now we are heading towards a real democracy with the media enjoying complete freedom of expression. The print media is completely free with its continued criticism, rather efforts are being made for more than criticism,” the minister remarked.
Regarding the businessmen dissatisfaction over their news coverage by official media, the minister said a 10-member media advisory committee comprising people from business community has been formed which would work for proper coverage of news and events relating to business and industry on the suggestions of businessmen.
Source: The News
Date:4/25/2002
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