Rana Latif: "I am proud of Azerbaijani culture"
Modern.az website continues its series of interviews with foreign journalists. In these interviews, we try to learn about the perceptions of these journalists about Azerbaijan and Azerbaijanis, explore commonalities between the two countries, and exchange views on other issues.
Our interviewee this time is Pakistani journalist Rana Latif. He is the president of the Pakistan Journalists' Foundation (PJF) and an Honored Journalist.
We present the interview with the Pakistani journalist:
– Mr. Rana, journalism manifests differently in every country. What does journalism look like in Pakistan?
– Journalism in Pakistan is not entirely open; there are a number of restrictions.
– What are the distinguishing features of the Pakistani media environment?
– In Pakistan today, print media is almost completely destroyed, even on the verge of extinction. Electronic media is artificially kept alive and is in its final stages of activity. Serious restrictions are also applied to digital media.
– In your opinion, is Pakistani media completely free, or are there certain restrictions?
– No, it is not completely free; journalists work in extremely difficult conditions. Personally, I myself have been subjected to assassination attempts twice, and I have been directly shot at.
– What are the main challenges journalists face?
– The Ministry of Information is considered the main institution for journalists and is regarded as the pillar of the "fourth estate." The head of the Press and Information Department, Mubashir Hasan, has been in this position for 7 years. As a result of his activities, print, electronic, and digital media have suffered serious damage. This process was mainly carried out to obtain unofficial income, and as a result, journalists have become unemployed.
– How do you think, when media has to choose between state interests and truth, which one should it prioritize?
– Pakistani journalists work in very difficult conditions. It is difficult to write the truth completely. Although some truth is presented, the rest is given within the framework of state interests. Because it is not possible to operate outside the system.
– What is the starting salary for journalists in Pakistan?
– Due to mismanagement and unofficial financial interests, the salary level of journalists is almost non-existent. Many journalists live below the poverty line. Because I protested this situation, my company fell into a difficult situation, and for the last 5 years, I have been paying salaries from my personal funds.
– How is Azerbaijan known in Pakistan?
– Azerbaijan is a very valuable country of special importance for Pakistan. In a word, Azerbaijan is the eye of Pakistan.
– What topics about Azerbaijan are most covered in Pakistani media?
– In Pakistani media, topics such as Azerbaijan's business opportunities, successful state policy, positive steps by politicians, and corruption-free governance come to the forefront. Azerbaijan is like a heart for Pakistan.
– Do you think negotiations mediated by Pakistan will be effective in the context of the Iran-US confrontation?
– Yes, I can say with full confidence that these negotiations will yield positive results, and Pakistan's peace-oriented activities will be highly appreciated by the world.
– Why was Pakistan's mediation accepted?
– Pakistan is interested in maintaining peace in the region and the world. The country is a nuclear state and understands well the consequences of nuclear war. For this reason, Pakistan's mediation was accepted.
– What is Pakistan's position on Iran's attack on Arab countries in the Gulf?
– This step is considered wrong and should be stopped.
– Azerbaijan has purchased JF-17C fighter jets from Pakistan. How do you evaluate relations in the military field?
– Military relations are very good. Cooperation in this area should be expanded, and joint exercises and operations should be increased.
– What changes have occurred in Pakistani society in recent years?
– Pakistan is a developing country in the fields of investment, import-export, tourism, and agriculture.
– What are the daily eating habits of Pakistanis?
– Mainly halal and organic foods are preferred.
– What social and cultural characteristics stand out?
– Hospitality and respect for guests are among the main characteristics.
– Are you familiar with Azerbaijani culture?
– Yes, I like Azerbaijani culture very much and I would love to visit your country.
