The Media Reforms agenda moved forward as Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ataullah Tarar met a delegation of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE). The delegation was led by its President, Kazim Khan. Both sides discussed challenges facing the newspaper industry and measures to strengthen the print media sector.

The meeting focused on several key issues. These included reforms to the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC), budgets for news agencies, outstanding payments to media houses and concerns over dummy newspapers.

Both sides agreed to reform the ABC system. They said the changes would improve transparency, efficiency and accountability. They also stressed the need to align the bureau with modern industry requirements.

Ataullah Tarar said the government believes in a free, responsible and strong print media. He added that the Ministry of Information would continue consulting all stakeholders to address the industry’s legitimate concerns.

The minister said the government would prioritise ABC reforms. It would also clear outstanding dues owed to media organisations. He added that the government would address issues related to news agencies. Tarar assured the delegation of full cooperation in resolving the genuine concerns of journalistic institutions.

The CPNE delegation congratulated Raisa Adil on assuming charge as the new Principal Information Officer (PIO). Members expressed confidence that her leadership would strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Information and the newspaper industry.

The delegation also praised the services of outgoing Principal Information Officer Mubashir Hassan. Members wished him success in his future endeavours.

Federal Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Ashfaq Ahmed Khalil also attended the meeting.

The CPNE delegation included Secretary General Ghulam Nabi Chandio, Finance Secretary Arif Baloch, former President Irshad Ahmed Arif and former Secretary General Ejaz-ul-Haq. It also included Sindh Vice President Qazi Asad Abid, Punjab Vice President Mian Hassan Ahmed, Islamabad Vice President Shakeel Ahmed Tarabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Vice President Tahir Farooq, Joint Secretary Islamabad Yahya Sadozai and Rafi Niazi.

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