Pezeshkian calls for media integrity to combat misinformation, foster public trust
Regional cooperation key to counter US sanctions
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian underscored the urgent responsibility of media outlets to combat misinformation to restore public trust, during his visit to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) on its 90th anniversary on Saturday.
He stressed the media’s role in disseminating accurate information is crucial for restoring public trust in a chaotic environment, IRNA reported.
He was accompanied by the Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Abbas Salehi, Director of Government Information Council Elias Hazrati, Hazrati’s deputy, Mehdi Tabatabai, Political Deputy of the Presidential Office Mehdi Sanayi, and presidential aide Yousef Pezeshkian.
Speaking to senior managers and editors at IRNA, Pezeshkian said, “Today, your duty is to combat falsehoods, accusations, and calumnies, while providing transparent and honest information.”
He said that such efforts are essential for ensuring the public understands that the information they receive is credible and not mere rumors.
The president pointed out that the media, especially in the digital age, is plagued by the spread of misinformation.
He urged media outlets to adhere to ethical standards in their reporting.
He lamented that some actions in the information sphere have contributed to public distrust and called for a commitment to honesty as the first step in rebuilding confidence.
He criticized the tendency for slanderous accusations in social media, warning that such actions can irreparably damage reputations.
During his address, he also discussed the importance of media in shaping public perception, noting that small incidents can escalate into larger crises if not managed properly.
In addition to media responsibilities, Pezeshkian outlined the government’s strategy for overcoming economic challenges exacerbated by international sanctions.
He called for enhanced cooperation with neighboring countries and the effective use of regional organizations like Eurasia, BRICS, and Shanghai Cooperation Organization to mitigate the impact of US sanctions.
He stressed the necessity of internal unity and collaboration to address societal issues, stating that unresolved conflicts could lead to self-destruction.
“If we cannot overcome our differences, we will be our own worst enemy,” Pezeshkian warned.
Concluding his visit, the president unveiled a commemorative stamp and a book celebrating IRNA’s 90th anniversary, reaffirming the media’s significance in Iranian society.
Also, Abbas Salehi talked about the agency’s unique role in shaping and narrating the history of Iran.
He stated that IRNA has played an irreplaceable role in various aspects of Iranian history and continues to uphold a professional standard in its operations.
“State media must ensure that the voices of the voiceless are heard,” Salehi added.
Reflecting on the significance of IRNA’s longstanding presence, Salehi noted that the agency, originally known as Pars News Agency and now the Islamic Republic News Agency, has chronicled a century of Iranian history.
He pointed out to the heightened importance of media in today’s world, emphasizing that IRNA has been and remains a valuable asset for the country due to both its historical legacy and its critical roles during pivotal moments in Iran’s past.
Salehi acknowledged the new approaches introduced by IRNA’s CEO, Hossein Jaberi-Ansari, stating that these innovations maintain continuity with previous strategies. He stressed the need for a media outlet that fosters social cohesion within society, one that not only promotes unity among state components but also strengthens mutual trust between the government and the public. “National trust and intra-government confidence are crucial, especially in the current political climate and international context,” he added.
The culture minister pointed out that the government’s social capital has been weakened and requires restoration.
He emphasized that this restoration can occur through a media platform that amplifies the voices of the people, including those of experts, various social groups, and even the marginalized.
Salehi acknowledged that while some entities may have concerns regarding security, it is vital for state media to create an environment where the unheard voices are acknowledged, ensuring that no one is overlooked or disregarded.
Salehi expressed hope that the approach and path taken by Pezeshkian would assist the media in fostering social cohesion and building public trust.