Proactive approach required to counter negativity against CPEC

ISLAMABAD( WNAM REPORT):  During a roundtable discussion on ‘narratives on the CPEC and role of media’ hosted by the Institute of Regional Studies, (IRS), Islamabad, several experts highlighted the need to shift from a reactive to a proactive approach for countering negative media portrayal of CPEC.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President of IRS, highlighted the misinformation being spread about CPEC and emphasized the need to showcase its contributions to Pakistan’s economy to counter such propaganda. He also urged the media to perform its twin roles of informing as well as educating by adopting an objective and constructive approach.
Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director of China Study Centre noted said that there were challenges in developing CPEC and crafting a positive narrative about it. He emphasized that all stakeholders, including China, must work to counter Indian propaganda.
Dr, Yasir Masoor, former Director, Media and Publications, Ministry of Planning Commission felt that the negative narrative was aimed not just at creating misperceptions, but also at keeping Pakistan entangled in a geostrategic quagmire. He urged the government to move beyond a reactive stance so to counter the pervasive propaganda.
Eatisam Ul Haq of China Media Group, emphasized the importance of showcasing CPEC’s success stories and noted that social media can effectively promote its positives. Dr. Tahir Mumtaz Awan, former Director China Study Centre, COMSATS University also raised concerns about insufficient response to negative propaganda regarding CPEC, and emphasized the importance of increased engagement with international media to neutralize such mis concepts.
The event was well attended by national and international media personnel, diplomats, academics, researchers and university students.