ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Pakistan observed the 27th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer on Wednesday, reaffirming its national resolve to defend sovereignty and uphold regional peace. The day commemorates the country’s historic nuclear tests on May 28, 1998, in Chagai, which established Pakistan as the seventh nuclear power in the world and the first among Muslim-majority nations.
Leadership Reaffirms Strategic Commitment
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led national commemorations, paying tribute to the architects of Pakistan’s nuclear programme and underscoring the enduring value of strategic deterrence.
“Today, we observe the 27th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer — a day when we demonstrated our nuclear capabilities and established strategic deterrence,” said President Zardari in a statement. He noted that Pakistan’s nuclear capability continues to serve as a “credible minimum deterrent” in a complex regional security environment.
The president further added, “This day serves as a reminder of our commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of our beloved country.”
He paid homage to the contributions of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Benazir Bhutto, and the country’s scientific community, calling their efforts the foundation of an “impregnable defence.”
PM Shehbaz Calls for Economic Transformation
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called Youm-e-Takbeer not only a day of strategic success but also a symbol of national unity and determination.
“Today on Youm-e-Takbeer, I thank Allah Almighty and congratulate from the core of my heart the entire nation and all patriotic Pakistanis,” he stated. He linked the nuclear milestone to recent developments, describing the May 6–10 military standoff with India as another affirmation of Pakistan’s defensive resolve.
“The joys of Youm-e-Takbeer have further increased for a nation filled with victory,” the prime minister said, emphasizing that Pakistan’s six nuclear tests in 1998—one more than India’s—demonstrated an “iron resolve” despite global pressure.
Shehbaz Sharif also urged the nation to extend the spirit of Youm-e-Takbeer to economic development: “Today we pledge to make Pakistan an economic power and achieve its true place in the world. Insha Allah. Long live Pakistan.”
Armed Forces and Institutions Express Solidarity
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, along with the chiefs of the armed forces, extended their congratulations to the nation on the occasion. In a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military described the nuclear tests as a pivotal moment that restored strategic balance in South Asia and asserted Pakistan’s sovereign right to self-defence.
“Youm-e-Takbeer is a tribute to the foresight of visionary leadership, the brilliance of our scientists and engineers, and the countless contributions of those who rendered Pakistan’s defence unassailable,” the ISPR stated.
The armed forces reiterated their dedication to credible minimum deterrence, asserting that Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal is solely for defensive purposes and a guarantor of peace. “Let this day renew our collective pledge to remain vigilant, united, and resolute,” the military’s media wing affirmed.
Foreign Office: Commitment to Peace and Stability
In its statement, the Foreign Office emphasized Pakistan’s ongoing dedication to regional and global peace. “We remain resolute in our dedication to promoting peace and stability — both in the region and beyond — through collective strength and unity,” the FO declared, reiterating Pakistan’s stance against any aggression and its commitment to peaceful coexistence.
