Pakistan Television (PTV) has officially launched PTV Digital, a new English-language digital news channel aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s global media presence and countering anti-Pakistan narratives. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the channel on Wednesday at a ceremony attended by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Information Secretary Ambreen Jan, and senior PTV officials.
Unveiling the plaque, the prime minister described the launch as an important milestone in strengthening Pakistan’s ability to project its perspective internationally. He stressed that the channel would provide authentic, fact-based news to global audiences while serving as a tool to combat misinformation and misrepresentation about the country.
During his visit, Shehbaz toured various sections of the channel, interacted with young professionals, and praised their commitment to the initiative. He highlighted the importance of their role, describing their energy and passion as “vital in the battle of narratives against external propaganda.” The prime minister also recorded his first interview for PTV Digital, excerpts of which were broadcast later in the day.
In his remarks, Shehbaz expressed hope that Pakistan would achieve “remarkable progress in economic prosperity, peace, and happiness” over the next decade. He emphasized that the new channel must reflect these aspirations by projecting a credible and positive image of the country.
Briefing the prime minister, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the launch of PTV Digital is part of a broader strategy to modernize state media and strengthen Pakistan’s public diplomacy. He explained that the channel will serve as a proactive voice for the country, offering international audiences nuanced perspectives on Pakistan’s domestic and foreign affairs.
Tarar outlined the content focus of the new platform, which will include international affairs, economic developments, cultural narratives, and analytical features. He stressed that the channel’s mission is to bridge information gaps and ensure Pakistan’s story is told first, “before others define it.”
To ensure credibility and real-time coverage, PTV Digital will combine in-house reporting with a global network of freelancers and partnerships with leading wire agencies such as Reuters and the Associated Press (AP). This hybrid model is designed to deliver verified, timely, and high-quality news to audiences worldwide.
Officials noted that PTV Digital will play a dual role: projecting Pakistan’s image abroad while also offering domestic audiences a window into how the world perceives the country. The channel is expected to be active on digital platforms to engage younger, tech-savvy viewers who increasingly consume news online.
The initiative comes amid broader discussions about reviving PTV’s relevance and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving media landscape. The National Assembly has already sought a plan to restructure and modernize the state broadcaster, with emphasis on digital transformation.
Industry observers see the launch of PTV Digital as a strategic move to counter one-sided narratives in international and regional media, particularly those influenced by Western and Indian outlets. By providing an English-language platform, Pakistan hopes to reach policymakers, media professionals, and global audiences directly with its perspectives.
With its launch, PTV Digital represents a significant step in Pakistan’s efforts to expand its media footprint, strengthen its digital diplomacy, and assert its voice in the international information space.
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