Journalists laud information ministry’s media facilitation centre during US-Iran ceasefire talks in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Apr, 2026) Journalists from Pakistan and abroad on Saturday praised the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for establishing a state-of-the-art media facilitation centre at Jinnah Convention Centre in the Federal capital during the ongoing high-level ceasefire talks between the United States and Iran.

Officials and media professionals described the arrangements as seamless and an international standard, noting that the facility had significantly eased reporting during what is being seen as a diplomatically sensitive engagement.

Federal Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Ashfaq Ahmed Khilji said the centre was set up on an emergency basis under the guidance of Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, with the Primary aim of facilitating both local and international media.

He said a comprehensive plan had been devised to ensure smooth operations, adding that journalists were provided logistical support, including shuttle services, to ensure uninterrupted access to the venue.

“We ensured that all arrangements remained flawless and that media representatives received maximum facilitation,” he said, adding that feedback from journalists had been overwhelmingly positive.

Defence analyst Maria Sultan termed the initiative a significant achievement, saying the arrangements reflected a broad-based and inclusive approach.

“There is no mismanagement. Media experts, defence analysts and other relevant stakeholders have all been accommodated. The environment here reflects that of an international summit,” she said.

She also noted that the facilitation extended beyond logistics, ensuring that sensitive negotiations could proceed without disruption. According to her, careful handling of information flow was critical in maintaining the integrity of ongoing talks.

Foreign journalists also expressed satisfaction with the arrangements. Turkish journalist Deniz Kilislioglu described the centre as well-organised, highlighting the availability of studios, workspaces and press briefing halls.

“It’s my first time in Pakistan, and the experience has been very positive. The people are hospitable and supportive, and the facilities here meet our professional needs,” she said.

Senior Pakistani journalists echoed similar sentiments. Gharidah Farooqi said the hosting of such high-stakes talks itself reflected positively on Pakistan, adding that the media centre met international standards in terms of design and functionality.

She pointed to the availability of high-speed internet, timely access to information and adequate workspace as key strengths, noting that these elements are essential for effective coverage of global events.

Senior journalist Shahbaz Rana said the arrangements would help project a positive image of Pakistan internationally, particularly as foreign media organisations were able to operate without difficulty.

Other journalists, including Hassan Ayub and Aamir Ilyas Rana, highlighted the role of digital infrastructure and transport facilities in ensuring efficient reporting, saying the centre provided an environment comparable to major international forums.

Participants broadly agreed that the availability of technical support, rapid dissemination of press releases and a professional working environment had contributed to smooth media coverage.

The initiative, they said, underscored Pakistan’s ability to host complex international engagements while maintaining both operational efficiency and media transparency.

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