Islamabad, Pakistan: The nation is observing Youm-e-Takbeer to commemorate the historic nuclear tests Pakistan conducted on May 28, 1998, in self-defence in response to India’s nuclear tests. The nuclear explosions made Pakistan’s defence invincible, making it the first nuclear power in the Muslim world and the seventh in the world.
On the 28th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI(M), HJ, COAS & CDF; Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI(M), T Bt, Chief of the Naval Staff; and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI(M), HJ, Chief of the Air Staff, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, extended heartfelt felicitations to the proud people of Pakistan.
Youm-e-Takbeer commemorates the historic achievement of May 28, 1998, when Pakistan emerged as a nuclear power and restored the strategic balance in South Asia. This defining milestone symbolizes the nation’s unity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national honour.
This historic achievement is a testament to the visionary leadership, remarkable contributions of scientists and engineers, and the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and the people of Pakistan. Pakistan’s strategic capability remains a sacred national trust and a guarantor of peace, stability, territorial integrity, and credible deterrence in the region.
The Armed Forces of Pakistan reaffirmed their unwavering resolve to defend the motherland against all threats and remained committed to ensuring the security, stability, and prosperity of the nation.
On this momentous occasion, while bowing in humility before the Almighty, the Pakistani nation renews its pledge of unity, vigilance, resilience, and dedication towards a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan.
“May 28, 1998, was a defining moment in our national history — a day when Pakistan demonstrated to the world that it would never compromise on its sovereignty, security, dignity, or right to self-defence,” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in his message.
As Pakistan commemorates Youm-e-Takbeer today, the prime minister said the country pays glowing tribute to Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who laid the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, and to Quaid Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, whose bold, courageous, and resolute leadership in May 1998 transformed that vision into reality despite immense international pressure.
“We also honour Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, Dr Samar Mubarakmand, and the countless brilliant scientists, engineers, valiant armed forces personnel, and all those associated with the nuclear programme, whose dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment made Pakistan’s defence invincible.
“Youm-e-Takbeer remains a symbol of national unity, unwavering resolve, and the collective strength of all elements of national power in safeguarding Pakistan’s independence while ensuring peace and strategic stability in the region. On this historic day, let us renew our pledge to build a strong, prosperous, united, and self-reliant Pakistan founded on faith, unity, and discipline,” PM Sharif said.
