PM reiterates commitment to press freedom in meeting with NOAB leaders

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding press freedom, while also signalling closer engagement with media stakeholders to address challenges facing the newspaper industry.

The assurance came during his first formal meeting with leaders of the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB), held at the Cabinet Division in the Secretariat on Tuesday.

According to officials, the discussion focused on strengthening media-government relations and improving conditions in the sector.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister said he closely follows news coverage through newspapers and television and regularly takes updates on key national issues highlighted in the media.

He added that necessary instructions are often given based on such reports, reflecting the government’s attention to public concerns raised by journalists.

NOAB leaders used the opportunity to outline the difficulties currently faced by the print media industry.

They noted that although newspapers were recognised as an industry during a previous BNP tenure, the sector is now struggling and requires policy support to remain sustainable.

Among their concerns were unpaid government advertisement dues accumulated over past administrations, which they said have placed financial strain on many publications.

They also urged the government to withdraw cases filed against journalists during the previous interim period and to assist in securing bail for those currently detained.

Responding to the concerns, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of maintaining open communication between the government and media owners.

He proposed holding such meetings every three months to ensure continued dialogue and problem-solving.

The meeting, which lasted over an hour, concluded with a luncheon hosted by the Prime Minister, followed by a photo session with NOAB members.

Senior government officials and prominent editors from leading newspapers were present at the discussion, marking a significant step towards rebuilding cooperation between the government and the media industry.