ISLAMABAD : Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan Neil Hawkins called on Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb in Islamabad on Wednesday and the two exchanged views on bilateral relations, economic stability and cooperation in the areas of film, art and culture.
Australian ambassador lauded the efforts of Pakistan government for stability of national economy and IMF agreement.
Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb said Pakistan holds its relations with Australia in high esteem.
She went on to say the government took immediate and concrete steps for national economy in line with the PM Shahbaz Sharif vision. Positive results have started coming in national economy due to these steps.
She also apprised Australian ambassador about newly established Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
She said this council will ensure consistency and effective implementation of policies for economic recovery. SIFC will work on high forum of decision making.
She said government believes in freedom of expression. Government presented bill on freedom of expression in parliament during first week after coming to power.
She said the Journalists and Media Professionals’ Protection (Amendment) Bill is in the process of approval. Robust amount has been allocated in the current fiscal year budget in connection with health insurance of journalists and artists. Budget has been earmarked for film industry for the first time.
We want to promote Pakistani culture and civilization all across the world through screen tourism, she added.
She also informed Australian ambassador about National Immature Film Festival (NIFF)
.
She held that NIFF is aimed at highlighting the talents of Pakistani youths. 25 high achievers have recently left for Australia in connection with NIFF award, she indicated.
Government has set up Film Finance Fund (FFF) of Rs 2 billion. Several incentives have been given to film industry.
.Government will provide funds for making film documentary and drama, she stated.
She said foreign filmmakers should benefit from special incentives in the field of photography and filmmaking in Pakistan
Australian media is reporting Pakistan in objective and impartial, she added.
Australian ambassador said Australian company is working on Rekodiq project in Balochistan. This project will doubtlessly open door to development of Pakistan.
The ambassador appreciated the information minister efforts for freedom of expression, economic stability and promotion of film and culture .