Press Releases 2008
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Islamabad, May 3, 2008 – U.S. Embassy Press Attaché Dr. Elizabeth O. Colton speaking at the World Press Freedom Day function at the Lincoln Reading Lounge of the National Library of Pakistan.
U.S. Envoy Underscores Media Professionalism, Integrity
05/03/2008
Islamabad – The Press Attaché of the U.S. Embassy, Elizabeth O. Colton, called upon the journalists to “exercise the freedom of media with highest standards of professionalism and integrity” while speaking at the World Press Freedom Day function organized at the Lincoln Reading Lounge of the National Library of Pakistan here today.
“Journalists must report accurately and fairly all that is of public interest,” Press Attaché Colton emphasized. “The United States values freedom of the press as a key component of democratic governance.”
Elizabeth Colton said that the press is often a target of retaliation by those who feel threatened by freedom of expression and transparency in democratic processes.
“The press fosters active debate, provides investigative reporting, and serves as a forum to express different points of view, particularly on behalf of those who are marginalized in the society,” the American diplomat observed.
Recalling the U.S. government’s active support for press freedom during the Emergency in Pakistan she said that the media must be free to report on events and share their opinions with the public.
