ISLAMABAD – Pakistan marked Youm-i-Takbeer with country’s top leadership calling May 28, 1998 a defining moment that secured its place among nuclear powers and reshaped the strategic balance of South Asia.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the nuclear tests carried out in hills of Chagai were a demonstration of national resolve and unity, undertaken in response to India’s earlier nuclear explosions. He said the decision sent a clear message that Pakistan would never compromise on its defence or sovereignty, even in the face of intense international pressure, sanctions, and diplomatic isolation.
The premier said the achievement shows strength of country’s leadership and institutions at the time, and paid tribute to former prime ministers Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif for their roles in the nuclear programme. He also acknowledged the contributions of scientists and engineers, including Abdul Qadeer Khan and Samar Mubarakmand, along with the armed forces, technicians, and workers who helped make Pakistan’s nuclear capability a reality.
Sharif said Pakistan’s nuclear deterrence, backed by a capable military, continues to serve as a safeguard against aggression. Referring to recent tensions with India, he said Pakistan had responded firmly to hostile actions during what he described as Marka-i-Haq, adding that national unity and military cohesion remained strong under the principle of Bunyan-un-Marsoos.
He also praised senior military leadership, including Field Marshal Asim Munir, Air Chief Zaheer Ahmad Babar, and Naval Chief Naveed Ashraf, for their professionalism and performance.
Reiterating Pakistan’s position, the prime minister said the country seeks peace in the region but will not hesitate to defend itself if challenged. He warned that after setbacks in direct confrontation, hostile elements were now increasingly relying on proxy networks such as Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan to destabilize the country, adding that security operations against such threats would continue.
President Asif Ali Zardari also described May 28, 1998 as a turning point that gave Pakistan strategic sovereignty. He said the nuclear tests at Chagai were carried out in response to regional security challenges and India’s nuclear developments, and credited the collective resolve of political leadership, scientists, and the armed forces for achieving the milestone despite heavy international pressure and sanctions.
He said Pakistan’s nuclear capability remains a key pillar of national defence and a symbol of unity and sacrifice. The president also highlighted how modern warfare is evolving, pointing to cyber threats, artificial intelligence, and drone technology as emerging challenges, and noted that Pakistan’s armed forces are adapting to these realities while maintaining strong deterrence.
Zardari reaffirmed that Pakistan is a peace-loving country committed to international law and the UN Charter, but retains the right to self-defence. He also praised the military’s professionalism in past responses to aggression, including operations referenced as Bunyan-un-Marsoos.
The military’s top leadership said Youm-e-Takbeer represents unity, resilience, and the establishment of credible deterrence. They said the nuclear capability was achieved through visionary leadership, scientific expertise, and the sacrifices of both soldiers and civilians.
The armed forces said Pakistan’s strategic strength remains a national trust aimed at ensuring peace, stability, and territorial integrity, adding that they remain fully prepared to defend the country against all threats while continuing efforts to secure national progress and security.
