Foreign policy, regional developments: Tarar urges restraint in public discourse

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar on Monday urged restraint in public discourse on foreign policy and regional developments, warning that sensational commentary on social media and digital platforms could harm Pakistan’s diplomatic interests during a sensitive period that the region is passing through.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, the minister said the Foreign Office has been playing a key role in managing the current situation, emphasizing that Pakistan’s external engagements are guided strictly by national interest.

“Our priority is Pakistan’s interest first,” Tarar said, adding the country maintains close and friendly relations with regional states and continues to follow a clear and consistent foreign policy. He cautioned against what he described as unnecessary commentary and sensational content online, noting that negative vlogs or speculative narratives about relations between countries, particularly when driven by the pursuit of online views, can undermine Pakistan’s diplomatic standing.

“Creating sensationalism for views is harmful. In the current situation, spreading sensational narratives is not a service to the country,” the minister said, stressing that Pakistan holds a respected position in the international community, and public discourse should reflect that responsibility.

On another occasion, the information minister later met a delegation of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) to discuss issues related to journalists and media workers, particularly the payment of salaries and pending dues.

Tarar said discussions have already taken place with the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) regarding the clearance of salaries for media workers. He added that government dues to television channels have been approved, which would facilitate payments to journalists.

According to the minister, the matter is expected to reach a logical resolution within the next few days, with media owners assuring that all outstanding payments would be cleared before Eid.

“The government will also fulfil its commitment so that journalists receive timely relief,” Tarar said.

Members of the PFUJ delegation appreciated the government’s efforts and expressed hope that if payments are made before Eid, media workers will be able to celebrate the festival with their families without financial stress.

The minister assured the delegation that the government would continue working with all stakeholders to resolve the matter amicably.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026