Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and acting President Yousuf Raza Gilani commended the nation's "unwavering determination" on Tuesday as Pakistan celebrated the 26th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer. This significant day marks the historic moment in 1998 when the nation's defense became impregnable following successful nuclear tests conducted in the hills of Chagai, Balochistan.
On May 28, 1998, Pakistan emerged as the first Muslim-majority country to acquire nuclear capabilities, marking a pivotal moment in its history. This achievement was a response to the regional security dynamics and ensured that Pakistan's defence capabilities were robust as well as credible.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a message to the nation, underscored the significance of the day and highlighted it as a testament to the collective effort of all facets of the national power that overcame a seemingly insurmountable challenge to enhance the country's defence capabilities.
"May 28 signifies more than just a mere commemoration of a day; it encapsulates the narrative of our nation’s arduous yet remarkable path towards establishing a credible minimum deterrence,” the premier shared on social media platform X.
The historic tests carried out under the leadership of former premier Nawaz Sharif, were in response to Indian nuclear explosions, solidifying Pakistan's defence and making it the seventh nuclear nation in the world as well as the first Muslim state to possess nuclear weapons.
May 28 signifies more than just a mere commemoration of a day; it encapsulates the narrative of our nation's arduous yet remarkable path towards establishing a credible minimum deterrence.
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 27, 2024
On this historic day ,in 1998, PM Nawaz Sharif demonstrated bold leadership by rejecting…
PM Shehbaz lauded his elder brother Nawaz's bold leadership in defying international pressure to make Pakistan a nuclear-armed nation.
He also paid tribute to former premier and PPP founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the founder of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, for his strategic foresight and unwavering commitment.
In his message, acting President Gilani said Youm-e-Takbeer served as a testament to Pakistan's resilience, unwavering determination, and commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability.
He reiterated the resolve to continue working towards a peaceful and stable world.
“On this day, the country successfully demonstrated its nuclear capabilities and joined the ranks of nuclear powers.”
Gilani pointed out that the country’s leadership and scientists braved various challenges to achieve this remarkable feat.
He acknowledged the hard work of scientists and engineers without whom this achievement would not have been possible.
Read Holiday declared for Youm-e-Takbeer
The acting president praised ZA Bhutto’s efforts for making Pakistan a nuclear state. He also appreciated former premier Benazir Bhutto’s decision as the opposition leader of the time to support then PM Nawaz for conducting the nuclear tests.
“Indeed, it was the collective determination of our civil and military leadership as well as our scientific acumen, and unwavering dedication to national defence that propelled us forward.”
Gilani said Pakistan remained committed to maintaining “credible minimum deterrence”, preserving the “balance of power and deterring aggression”.
Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza and the services chiefs also felicitated the nation on Youm-e-Takbeer.
In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) – the military’s media wing -- said the armed forces paid tribute to the “unwavering dedication and selfless sacrifices of all those who contributed to this remarkable feat, achieved against overwhelming odds”.
“[The armed forces] reaffirm their unwavering resolve to defend the motherland, protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and ensure the nation’s security at all times and any cost.”
In his message, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq noted that the nuclear tests were a clear message to the world that the country’s defence was impregnable and ensured the balance of power in the region.
“The successful nuclear tests highlighted the capabilities of Pakistan to face challenges with grit.”
In a statement issued by the PML-N, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, daughter of the party supremo, emphasised that Youm-e-Takbeer was a day of pride not just for Pakistan but also for the Islamic world.
“We made Pakistan a nuclear power for strong defence; now making it economically invincible is our mission.”
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said that his mother Benazir steadfastly carried forward the vision of his maternal grandfather ZA Bhutto with key services, including the “provision of modern missile technology”.
In statement, the PPP chairman noted that his mother had pressured the then-government to give a decisive response to Indian aggression.
He congratulated all Pakistanis, remembering the legacy of his grandfather, who envisioned making the country a nuclear power.
Bilawal described the scientists and others involved in the nuclear tests as the country’s “heroes”.
In his message, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Pakistan on May 28 that year had declared that no one could enslave it.
The nation began the day with special prayers in mosques for the peace and prosperity of the country, marking the occasion as a public holiday.
Special prayers were organised nationwide, with religious scholars emphasising the day’s importance in Pakistan’s history and praying for the country’s progress as well as prosperity.
With input from agencies
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