Pakistan celebrates Youm-i-Takbeer, Leadership hails nuclear capability as shield against hostility

Islamabad, May 28 – On the occasion of Youm-i-Takbeer, Pakistan’s top leadership reaffirmed the nation’s nuclear capability as a cornerstone of its sovereignty, particularly in the face of regional tensions with India.

Marking the 27th anniversary of Pakistan’s nuclear tests in Chagai, Balochistan, on May 28, 1998, the country observed a public holiday to commemorate its emergence as the world’s seventh nuclear power and the first Muslim state with atomic weapons.

In a statement carried by the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that Youm-i-Takbeer was not just a celebration but a testament to Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty. He linked this year’s observance to what he called Pakistan’s successful defense against “an unjustified war imposed by India,” adding that the nation’s triumph had heightened the significance of the day.

President Asif Ali Zardari echoed these sentiments, stating that Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal serves as a “credible minimum deterrent” in an evolving security landscape. He described the 1998 tests as a strategic decision to ensure peace through strength, maintain regional balance, and deter external aggression.

The historic tests, conducted under then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s leadership in response to India’s nuclear tests, were led by scientists Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan and Dr. Samar Mubarakmand in the Raskoh Hills of Chagai.

In a post on X, PM Shehbaz expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s recent success in countering Indian aggression and praised the armed forces for their steadfast defense of national borders. He also honored his predecessor, Nawaz Sharif, for his bold decision to proceed with nuclear tests despite international pressure, as well as former President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for initiating the nuclear program.

Shehbaz urged the nation to channel the spirit of Youm-i-Takbeer into economic progress, calling for unity to transform Pakistan into a formidable global economic force.

Meanwhile, President Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s “strategic patience” during recent tensions with India, crediting Operation Bunyanum Marsoos for effectively deterring further hostilities. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace and international law while vowing to protect the country’s sovereignty.

Military Reaffirms Defense Commitment

The armed forces, including Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza and service chiefs, extended their felicitations on Youm-i-Takbeer. In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) underscored Pakistan’s doctrine of “credible minimum deterrence” and its role in ensuring regional stability.

The military reaffirmed its “unflinching resolve” to defend Pakistan against all threats, stressing that its nuclear capability remains purely defensive. The ISPR paid tribute to the scientists, engineers, and leadership behind the nuclear program, calling it a “national trust” that embodies the nation’s unity and resilience.

As Pakistan commemorates this milestone, the armed forces urged citizens to remain vigilant and united in securing the country’s future.