<h2>International Media Censors Musharraf's Kashmir Comments</h2>

<h3>Media Bias or Diplomatic Set-back? </h3>

Mukhdum Ali
Updated on 2002-01-13 05:08:37

LAHORE, Pakistan (PNS) January 12, 2002 - President Musharraf addressed the nation here about 12 hrs ago in a long speech covering vital issues amid war threats from India on Eastern borders.

Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf's speech was primarily in national language, Urdu. However, Musharraf switched to English when addressing the core issue of conflict in the region, the long standing Kashmir dispute.

Shocking results from survey of International media websites reviewed here showed a skewed version of Musharraf's speech. Musharraf's statement and Pakistan's stance on Kashmir, the core issue of dispute between Pakistan and India was virtually ignored and censored out. Despite assurances of a President of country which has followed through on all of his promises of fighting U.S. led global war on terrorism, 'an expert' expressed 'doubts' on Musharraf's promises. One network, CBS in its radio broadcast, even claimed there are 'threats of war from Pakistan and India' when in reality Pakistan has never issued any war threat till date.

The reasons as to why clear statements read in English were not even quoted by American media are unknown. It added to the dismay of many Pakistanis who have constantly been complaining about one-sided pro-Indian coverage and absence of Pakistani views in main stream American broadcast and print media.

Quelle




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