Manzar Naqvi
KARACHI: Pakistan and the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation on Thursday agreed to intensify collaboration in the media sector, counter misinformation, and strengthen cultural ties among member states.
In a meeting between Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and D-8 Secretary General Ambassador Isiaka Abdulqadir Imam, both sides stressed that fake news has become a major global challenge requiring a coordinated and proactive response.
Minister Tarar called for a unified media strategy, emphasizing that misinformation threatens national stability, distorts public opinion, and undermines the collective narrative of D-8 nations. “A robust fact-checking system and effective social media strategy are essential to counter this challenge,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of cultural cooperation as a tool to enhance harmony among member states, adding that joint efforts in culture, communication, and technology could bring people closer and strengthen the region’s global image.
The minister also lauded Ambassador Imam’s leadership in promoting global economic cooperation, noting that D-8’s role is expanding in areas of development and international dialogue.
Ambassador Imam said the success of D-8 member states depends on supporting each other’s progress. He stressed sharing media expertise, conducting joint training programs, and deepening collaboration to build a unified and positive global narrative.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing media diplomacy, promoting mutual understanding, and countering the growing threat of misinformation, signaling a renewed push for cooperation among D-8 nations.
