Information minister reiterates commitment to freedom of expression

The government is committed to freedom of expression as it firmly believes that democracy and independence of media go hand in hand, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Senator Pervaiz Rashid said on Monday.

Talking to Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan Jean-Francois Cautain, he said that Pakistan highly values its ties with the European Union and intends to enhance cooperation in various areas, mutually beneficial for both countries.

The minister also thanked the EU for granting GSP-plus status to Pakistan and hoped that the European Union would continue its support in this connection, said a press release.

Senator Pervaiz Rashid said that media in Pakistan is not only independent but also highly vibrant in shaping public opinion and raising awareness among the masses about various issues.

He said that the government of PML-N is fully cognizant of the security needs of media houses and journalists. It is making all possible efforts to create a congenial atmosphere where media persons can perform their professional duties without any fear, he added.

The information minister also briefed the ambassador about the measures taken by the government to ensure safety of journalists without obstructing their access.

Jean-Francois Cautain assured the minister that the EU would continue to cooperate with Pakistan in areas of countering terrorism, strengthening democracy and issues of human rights.

The ambassador also said that the EU was preparing a report on two years of GSP-plus status for Pakistan which would be shared with the government of Pakistan and presented to EU members as well.

The EU ambassador also praised the level of independence provided to media in Pakistan.