Pakistan Todays launch in our beloved city of Karachi was much anticipated after all Pakistan is incomplete without its financial capital. The launch of Pakistan Todays Karachi edition has filled the void that was being dearly felt, and I extend my heartiest congratulations to them.
The medias role as fourth pillar of the state has ensured that public representatives remain accountable when they are in office, and not simply during times of elections. Awareness in society has risen, and so have our collective responsibilities as citizens of this country.
But our times have also seen the misuse of information, often to the advantage of forces bent on harming our country.
The challenges faced by Pakistan, and specifically Sindh, are many. We are still reeling from the effects of the floods, and rehabilitation has proven to be a difficult task. Our political parties and civil society have joined forces in these testing times, but there are many who are still suffering and their lives continue to be in disarray.
Education and unemployment are also pressing issues. There are thousands across the province without any means of earning respectable livelihoods. Terrorism has ravaged many parts of the country, and our cities are no exception.
We have been trying to alleviate the miseries of these people, but the government alone cannot solve all problems. Intellectuals and social activists need to lend a hand to the government, but equally important is the contribution of an independent and responsible media in rebuilding the province and country.
I hope that Pakistan Today will consider all such factors in its quest for a democratic and progressive Pakistan. I am sure that it will uphold and espouse journalistic traditions of objectivity and impartiality something that is associated with Mr Arif Nizami and Mr Javed Choudhry. I wish Pakistan Today the very best in its journey ahead.