Report: Hurish Shah FT :
ISLAMABAD — French Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Jean-Noël Poirier, visited the National Press Club (NPC) Islamabad, where he was warmly received by NPC President Abdul Razzaq Sial, Secretary Dr. Furqan Rao and senior journalists.
During the visit, the French ambassador planted a sapling at the Press Club and was briefed on its various departments, facilities and journalistic activities.
Welcoming the ambassador, NPC President Abdul Razzaq Sial said the National Press Club was actively working to promote journalists' welfare, professional training and journalistic activities. He termed the visit an important step towards strengthening media relations and mutual cooperation between Pakistan and France.
NPC Secretary Dr. Furqan Rao briefed the ambassador on the history, organisational structure, ongoing welfare initiatives and professional activities of the Press Club.
He highlighted the need for training programmes to enhance journalists' professional capabilities, equip them with modern journalistic skills and provide exposure to international media practices.
Dr. Furqan Rao expressed hope that, with the cooperation of the French Embassy, training workshops and professional sessions would be organised to enhance the capacity of Pakistani journalists and familiarise them with modern journalism, communication skills and international media experiences.
He said the National Press Club was keen to play a constructive role in further strengthening journalistic and cultural relations between Pakistan and France.
Speaking informally with NPC office-bearers and journalists, French Ambassador Jean-Noël Poirier expressed his willingness to work with Pakistani journalists and explore opportunities for cooperation with the National Press Club. He stressed the importance of maintaining regular communication and exchanging views with members of the media.
NPC President Abdul Razzaq Sial thanked the French ambassador for visiting the National Press Club and appreciated his interest in strengthening professional ties with the Pakistani media.
The visit was described as an important opportunity to promote media relations, exchange professional experiences and explore new avenues of cooperation, including joint activities and capacity-building initiatives for journalists from both countries.
