ISLAMABAD: Minister for Information and Broadcasting Syed Shibli Faraz has said that the government firmly believes in freedom of expression and would take all possible steps for resolving financial problems of the working journalists.

He was speaking at a cheques' distribution ceremony among deserving media workers and press clubs in Islamabad today.

The Minister appreciated media's role in creating awareness among masses to observe precautionary measures in the ongoing fight against coronavirus.

Expressing the government's determination in providing all possible facilities for the up-gradation of press clubs, he said for this purpose more funds will be allocated in coming years.

Shibli Faraz said that it is Prime Minister Imran Khan's longstanding desire to support deserving working journalists. He said it is the responsibility of government to protect rights of journalists.

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Information and Broadcasting Akbar Durrani said that upto one million rupees have been granted to each press club whereas upto five hundred thousand rupees for individual cases have been provided for financial support. 

He appreciated the federal government support for journalist community amid crises of Covid-19.