Bbc Urdu: Sairbeen launching on Pakistani channel

From February 11, the programme will air three times a week at 11 pm.

BBC World Service is launching the first ever BBC Urdu TV programme, Sairbeen, which will be broadcast by Express News in Pakistan.

From Monday, February 11, the programme will air three times a week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday), at 11 pm PST.

According to a press release, Sairbeen brings Express News viewers the best of the BBC’s journalism, analysis and interviews to get the global news agenda that resonates with Pakistani audiences.

The programme also features regular items covering Pakistan’s latest cultural developments, social-media trends, as well as travel, business and economy.

“I am aware of the high expectations our audiences have of BBC, and I am thrilled at the prospect of engaging a newer, younger audience that keenly awaits our TV offer,” said BBC Urdu Editor Aamer Ahmed Khan.

Express News’ Director of Current Affairs Mazhar Abbas said, “By carrying Sairbeen on our channel, we will be able to present something people are currently missing on television in Pakistan - the in-depth and independent analysis from the BBC on national and international issues with leading experts.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2013.