Media has to play a responsible and neutral role in providing information based on facts, said Federal Minister for Information, Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan on Monday. In her meeting with the Sindh Chief Minister, Syed Qaim Ali Shah she said timely and accurate news is the right of the masses and this also demands close and better contact between government and media.
She said the government recognises media as the fourth pillar of state and has accepted it as a crucial tool for stability of democratic institutions. "Its role to promote democratic culture in the country is also extremely critical," said the minister. Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan said an improved and effective media policy is also needed to communicate to the masses the achievements of the democratic government. To achieve this very motive, she said both federal and provincial governments have to make concerted efforts so as to tune media and journalism on modern lines.
The Federal Information Minister apprised Sindh CM, Syed Qaim Ali of the details of her meeting with the representatives of Sindhi media, early in the day. She shared with him the recommendations made by the regional media representatives. Sharing the details of the proposed Sindhi Media House, the federal information minister said this was prerequisite for a strong and robust media. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah assured to provide plot and other needed support for the establishment of the Regional Media Center, as suggested by the Sindhi media representatives in their meeting with federal information minister.
The Chief Minister said the independent media had played an outstanding role in the restoration of democracy in the country. He said committed and honest journalists have not only worked for stability of the country but had always preferred national priorities over petty and individual benefits.