Today, the nation commemorates the 26th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer with fervor and national pride, marking the successful nuclear tests conducted on this day in 1998, which bolstered the country’s defense capabilities.
On May 28, 1998, Pakistan demonstrated its nuclear prowess by conducting tests at Chaghai in Balochistan, becoming the seventh nuclear power globally and the first among Muslim nations. This response was prompted by India’s nuclear tests earlier that month in Pokhran, Rajasthan.
The Prime Minister declared a public holiday today to underscore the importance of fortifying Pakistan’s defense and to honor this significant milestone in the nation’s history.
Acting President, Prime Minister, and Services Chiefs have extended their felicitations to the nation on this occasion. Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to global peace and stability, citing the successful demonstration of nuclear capabilities as a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.
He emphasized the resilience and determination displayed by Pakistanis, highlighting Youm-e-Takbeer as a testament to the nation’s dedication to regional peace.
The development and possession of nuclear weapons have not only strengthened Pakistan’s defense but also served as a deterrent against potential aggressors, ensuring the sovereignty and security of the nation amidst regional and global challenges.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a message on social media, praised the collective effort behind Youm-e-Takbeer, emphasizing the nation’s unwavering resolve to uphold its integrity against external pressures. He paid tribute to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and the Pakistan Army for their role in bolstering the country’s defense, while also acknowledging the contributions of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and scientists to Pakistan’s nuclear program, underscoring the importance of their legacy in shaping the nation’s defense capabilities.
