Washington (TDI): Concerns over new media restrictions in Pakistan took centre-stage at a diplomatic gathering in Washington on Tuesday night, prompting Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Shaikh to reaffirm Islamabad’s commitment to freedom of expression.
Speaking at the Ambassador Insider Series dialogue, hosted by The Washington Diplomat, the envoy faced his first question on the issue when moderator Adrienne Ross raised concerns about the restrictions, asking whether the Pakistani government was attempting to muzzle the media and limit free expression.
The ambassador rejected the idea that the amendments aimed to restrict free speech.
He said that the move to regulate social and digital media was driven by “the irresponsible use of digital space and the spread of fake news.”
Citing Australia’s recent efforts to protect children from online harm, the envoy said Pakistan was also working to regulate social media to make it more responsible.
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He emphasised the significance of responsible journalism, saying that the government welcomes it, even when it involves constructive criticism.
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He emphasized the need for journalist training and noted that authorities are open to dialogue with media organisations on these regulations.