KARACHI, Feb 14: Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad on Monday instructed the officials concerned to from a committee comprising officials of information and interior departments , editors, owners of newspapers and working journalists to ensure a better coordination between the press and the government.

Talking to a joint delegation of the Karachi Press Club and the Karachi Union of Journalists, who called on him at the Governor's House, he asked the provincial information department to take immediate measures in this regard.

He said that the government fully believed in the freedom of press. He said that the media had never been as free as it was today. He expressed hope that the media would also consider various aspects for its freedom.

Dr Ibad stressed on the role of media regarding national unity and promoting an investment-friendly atmosphere, besides improving better values and norms in society. He also directed the officials concerned for raising the grant of the Karachi Press Club and other press clubs in the province.

He assured the delegation that he would raise the issue of linking government advertisements with the implementation of wage board award in his meeting with President Musharraf.

Talking about civic matters, he said that the government would never allow damage to coastal areas of the city. He said that residential localities would be provided with parks and other entertainment facilities. He also asked the authorities concerned to complete the development works of the journalists' colony at the Hawkesbay.

He said that the government would extend its full cooperation on matters relating to the Karachi Press Club. He said that the heritage department would be asked to repair and renovate the historic building of the KPC.

The KPC delegation was led by Sabihuddin Ghousi while the KUJ delegation was led by Ayub Jan Sarhandi. Information Adviser Sallahuddin Haider and Secretary Information Mehtab Akbar Rashdi were also present on the occasion. -PPI