World Press Freedom Day is being observed today (Saturday).

The day acts as a reminder to governments of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom.

This year's theme of the day is "Reporting in the Brave New World - The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media."

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have reaffirmed their commitment to upholding and promoting a free and responsible press in Pakistan.

In their separate messages on the World Press Freedom Day, they paid tribute to media workers around the world, including those in Pakistan for their efforts and sacrifices in pursuit of truth.

President Asif Ali Zardari said media is indispensable for promoting dialogue, highlighting issues of social, economic and environmental significance, uncovering corruption and advocating for the marginalised.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said protecting freedom of expression requires ensuring that media is not misused for spreading falsehoods, fake news, propaganda, foreign agendas, or political interests.

He commended the responsible role of Pakistan's media in countering India's recent water aggression and baseless accusations through truth and facts.

Minister of Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has said Freedom of Press is a guarantor of democracy, transparent governance, and the protection of human rights.

In his message on the World Press Freedom Day, being observed on Saturday, he said the Pakistani media has always played a key role in the stability of democracy, the rule of law and raising public awareness.

The Information Minister paid tribute to the Pakistani media for effectively exposing the ongoing brutality, massive human rights violations in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, and Israeli atrocities against the Palestinians.

He said the journalist community has played a courageous role in shaking the global conscience and bringing the voices of the oppressed to international forums.

He said the free and conscious journalism is the true interpreter of human compassion and truthfulness.

Attaullah Tarar praised the media's careful, responsible, and national interest-first approach towards India's aggressive designs.

He said Pakistani media is effectively highlighting the state's position at the international level, which is very important for national security, foreign policy, and national unity.

The Minister said government is taking all possible measures for the protection, welfare, and professional training of journalists.

He said all media organizations have the right to perform their professional duty freely as the freedom of expression and access to information are the hallmarks of any democratic society.

Attaullah Tarar said the government is committed to ensuring freedom of the press and continuing constructive dialogue with media organizations.