Today Pakistanis observed Youm-i-Takbeer with zeal, zest and commitment to make Pakistan’s defense invincible. Twenty-six years back Pakistan proved its might after successfully conducting six nuclear tests in response to five Indian explosions. It made Pakistan the seventh-world atomic power and the first in the Muslim world.
Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, acting President of Pakistan Yusuf Raza Gilani, and the top military command hailed the nation’s “unwavering determination” to make Pakistan a nuclear power. This day is commemorated every year when on May 28, 1998, Pakistan joined the ranks of nuclear powers after atomic tests in the hills of Chaghi–Baluchistan. It was a public holiday today in the country.
The day dawned with special prayers and the recitation of the Holy Quran in mosques for the country’s peace, and prosperity. In his message, PM Shehbaz said May 28 ” Summarizes the narrative of our nation’s hard yet remarkable path towards establishing a credible minimum deterrence. On this historic day in 1998, the then PM Nawaz Sharif demonstrated boldness and courage, rejecting all pressures and inducements, to make Pakistan a nuclear-armed nation.” In his message on X, the premier also paid tribute to ex-prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who he said was the founder of Pakistan’s nuclear program.
The acting president Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said Youm-i-Takbeer served as a “Today is testament to our nation’s resilience, unwavering determination, and commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability.” He referred to the day as a “pivotal moment in our history” and mentioned that the journey to becoming a nuclear state was not without its difficulties. He acknowledged the hard work of the leadership and scientists who faced various challenges to achieve this remarkable feat, recognizing the contributions of the scientists and engineers, without whom this achievement would not have been possible.
He said that Bhutto’s efforts led to making Pakistan a nuclear state. He appreciated former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s decision as the opposition leader at the time to support Mian Nawaz Sharif in conducting nuclear tests. He emphasized that it was the collective determination of Pakistan’s civil and military leadership, as well as its scientific insight and unwavering dedication to national defense, that drove the country forward. The acting president stated, “Pakistan, as a responsible nuclear state, firmly believes in the peaceful resolution of conflicts. We also strictly adhere to international standards and have implemented stringent controls and comprehensive safety measures to safeguard our nuclear assets.”
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to “continue working towards a peaceful and stable world.” The acting president urged everyone to take inspiration from this achievement and collaborate to strengthen the country’s defense through technological and economic advancements. Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza and service chiefs also congratulated the nation on Youm-i-Takbeer, as reported by the national media. In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) expressed that the armed forces honored the unwavering dedication and selfless sacrifices of all those who contributed to this remarkable feat, achieved against overwhelming odds. The ISPR further emphasized the armed forces’ resolute determination to defend the motherland, protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. It ensured the nation’s security at all times and at any cost.
(By Rana Kashif)
