Youm-e-Takbeer a defining moment in Pakistan’s history: PM
May 28 restored strategic balance in South Asia: President
- Day symbol of commitment to territorial integrity and national pride: ISPR
Islamabad : Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Youm-e-Takbeer stands as a defining moment in Pakistan’s history, when the nation demonstrated unwavering resolve, unity and courage by emerging as a nuclear power and restoring the strategic balance in South Asia.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Youm-e-Takbeer marks the historic day of May 28, 1998, when Pakistan conducted nuclear tests in the Chagai hills of Balochistan and became a declared nuclear power.
In his message, PM Shehbaz Sharif said nuclear tests were conducted in response to India’s nuclear explosions, sending a clear message that Pakistan would never compromise on its defence and sovereignty. He said the day reflects national dignity, sacrifice, unity, and an unshakable commitment to safeguarding the homeland.
He paid tribute to all those who contributed to Pakistan’s nuclear programme, including Abdul Qadeer Khan and Samar Mubarakmand, acknowledging their historic role in making Pakistan’s defence impregnable.
He said India’s nuclear tests were driven by militaristic ambitions and expansionist designs, while Pakistan responded with wisdom and determination despite international pressure, economic threats and financial inducements aimed at stopping its strategic programme. He said the leadership of the time refused to compromise on the country’s independence and security.
PM Shehbaz Sharif added that Pakistan’s nuclear capability and the preparedness of its armed forces remained a decisive deterrent against enemy aggression.
Separately, in his message, President Asif Ali Zardari said that Youm-e-Takbeer marked a defining milestone when Pakistan attained strategic sovereignty and ensured the defeence of its independence and territorial integrity through successful nuclear tests.
He said Pakistan’s nuclear capability was developed in response to regional security challenges and India’s nuclear ambitions, despite facing sanctions and sustained international pressure.
The president paid tribute to Pakistani scientists, engineers, and armed forces, saying their dedication and professionalism enabled the country to achieve a historic strategic milestone. He said Pakistan’s nuclear capability remains a national asset and a symbol of collective resolve.
Referring to the events of May 1998, he said Pakistan’s nuclear tests restored strategic balance in South Asia and reflected national unity in defending sovereignty and independence.
In a separate statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the naval and air chiefs said that Youm-e-Takbeer commemorated the historic achievement of when Pakistan emerged as a nuclear power and restored the strategic balance in South Asia. They said the milestone reflects national unity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national honour.
ISPR described Pakistan’s strategic capability as a sacred national trust and a guarantor of peace, stability, and credible deterrence. It said the achievement was made possible through visionary leadership, the efforts of scientists and engineers, and the sacrifices of the armed forces and the people of Pakistan.
The armed forces reaffirmed their unwavering resolve to defend the motherland against all threats and remain committed to ensuring the security, stability and prosperity of the nation.
They added on this momentous occasion, Pakistani nation renews its pledge of unity, vigilance, resilience, and dedication for a stronger and prosperous Pakistan.
