ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday reaffirmed that Pakistan remains fully committed to upholding press freedom and ensuring a secure environment for media professionals.
In his message issued on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, the prime minister stated, “A free press is the guarantee for a strong, transparent and democratic Pakistan.”
He noted that the day serves as a reminder that an informed and responsible press forms the foundation of any democratic society. Journalists, he said, play a vital role in enabling public access to facts and act as “torchbearers of truth.”
According to the PM’s statement, “Acts of violence, threats or vengeance against journalists in the course of their professional duties are, in fact, attacks on freedom of expression.”
Paying tribute to media professionals who have faced hardships in pursuit of truth, justice, and public interest, the prime minister expressed solidarity with the families of journalists and media workers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
He said the government would continue to strengthen mechanisms to protect journalists and ensure accountability, adding, “We will take all necessary measures to guarantee effective investigation of crimes against journalists, deliver justice, and ensure legal action against the perpetrators.”
The prime minister also called on the international community, media organizations, and civil society to work together to safeguard journalists and promote the universal right to freedom of expression.
