ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday called on newspapers to champion democratic values, raise awareness of socio-economic issues, and promote tolerance, interfaith harmony and patriotism.

In his message on the National Newspaper Reader­ship Day being observed on Wednesday (September 25), the president congratulated the All-Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS).

The president said on the day, it was vital to reaffirm support for a free and responsible press, which was essential for the proper functioning of democracy and for influencing public opinion on both national and international matters.

President Zardari said a responsible press upholds the highest standards of accuracy, fairness and balance in reporting news.

It also provides a platform for marginalized voices to be heard but also generates healthy discussion on important issues.

Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2024