ISLAMABAD — Pakistan's media regulatory authority, acting on a court order, has instructed all news channels, radio stations and print media to refrain from promoting Valentine's Day.

A Pakistani court last year banned celebrations on Valentine's Day, saying it was against Islam and promotes western culture.

Since then, the agency has taken steps to ensure a blackout on any Valentine's Day promotions in print or electronic media. In a statement this week, it said it warned media organizations that the court order is still in effect.

Media officials confirmed they had received the order.

Pakistani Islamist and right-wing parties also view Valentine's Day as a vulgar Western import.