Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has emphasized the importance of a strong, collaborative relationship between the Parliament and the media for the advancement of parliamentary democracy.

He was addressing a luncheon in honour of the members of the Parliamentary Reporters Association at Parliament House in Islamabad on Wednesday.

The Chairman said the media has always played a pivotal role in safeguarding the public's right to information. He praised journalists for their dedication, integrity, and fact-based reporting, which keeps the public informed and holds the system accountable. A transparent Parliament and a free press are the true essence of democracy.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani also underlined the Senate's role in legislating for the protection of journalists' rights and expressed hope that parliamentary reporters will continue to provide the public with accurate, fact-based information. He assured full support in resolving the issues faced by the parliamentary journalists.

Speaking on the occasion, PRA President Usman Khan proposed the establishment of an endowment fund to support journalists. He suggested integrating PRA's website with the Senate website and initiating capacity-building training for PRA members through the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services.

PRA Secretary Naveed Akbar, in his remarks, said journalism and democracy are interconnected and hoped that the issues raised would be addressed on a priority basis. He also thanked Chairman Senate and the Senate Media Directorate for their support.

The luncheon was attended by Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Khan, Senate Secretary Syed Hasnain Haider, and a large number of PRA members.