Pakistan Television (PTV) on Wednesday launched its new English-language digital news channel, PTV Digital, aimed at projecting Pakistan’s perspective to global audiences and countering anti-Pakistan narratives.
Prime Minister Shehbaz inaugurated the channel by unveiling a plaque at a ceremony attended by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Information Secretary Ambreen Jan, and other senior officials.
The new channel is part of PTV’s efforts to expand its digital footprint and engage international viewers with Pakistan’s viewpoints on regional and global issues.
He also toured various sections of the channel, met with young professionals, and praised their enthusiasm, calling their role crucial in countering external narratives and underlining that the enthusiasm of young professionals would be “vital in the battle of narratives against external propaganda.”
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Shehbaz said the primary goal of the platform was to provide authentic news while effectively responding to misrepresentation and misinformation about Pakistan.
He also recorded his first interview for the channel, excerpts of which were broadcast later by PTV.
“If you are in the right direction, committing yourself with all your passion and energy to serve the cause of your country, that is a huge inspiration,” he said. Asked about his vision for Pakistan in the next decade, the premier said he hoped to see the nation “standing tall with remarkable achievements in economic prosperity, peace and happiness.”
Briefing the prime minister, Tarar said PTV Digital would serve as a credible and proactive voice for the country, bridging information gaps and promoting public diplomacy through an English-language platform. He noted the channel would focus on international affairs, cultural insights, economic progress and analyses.
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He added that the channel would combine in-house reporting with a global network of freelancers and partnerships with wire agencies such as Reuters and Associated Press (AP) to ensure real-time, verified and high-quality coverage.
The initiative, he stressed, is meant to counter one-sided narratives prevalent in Western and Indian-influenced regional media.
Tarar added that the channel’s strategic goal was to “deliver Pakistan’s story first, before others define it.”
