Marking the 27th anniversary of Pakistan’s nuclear tests, speakers at a Youm-e-Takbeer seminar on Wednesday said the country’s nuclear capability remains the cornerstone of its security, but warned that true sovereignty now depends on achieving economic self-reliance.
The Nazriya Pakistan Council (NPC) hosted the seminar, “Youm-e-Takbeer: Guarantee of Pakistan’s Security and Stability,” at the Quaid-e-Azam Gallery, Aiwan-e-Quaid, attended by scholars, students, parliamentarians, and members of civil society.
Courage in the face of pressure Presiding over the event, former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Muhammad Masood Khan recalled the international isolation Pakistan faced after India’s 1998 tests.
Despite tremendous pressure, our civil and military leadership showed courage and wisdom by deciding to conduct nuclear tests in the national interest, he said. “That decision ensured strategic stability in South Asia and continues to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty in an uncertain security environment.”
He traced Pakistan’s nuclear journey to the vision of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and the contributions of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, adding: “We must now accelerate the indigenization of our defense capabilities so that we are not dependent on others.
Nuclear capability is national pride Chief Guest Lt Gen (Retd) Abdul Qayyum, Senator and Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military) recipient, described the achievement as a matter of collective pride. National defence cannot be guaranteed solely through wealth and natural resources, he said. “It requires resilience, determination, and strategic preparedness. Pakistan’s nuclear capability is purely for defensive purposes and has contributed significantly to regional peace and stability by maintaining a credible deterrent.”
The next miracle must be economic NPC Senior Vice Chairman Faisal Zahid Malik termed the nuclear tests a historic milestone comparable to the creation of Pakistan, calling both “miracles” in the nation’s history.
After achieving strategic security, the country must now focus on attaining economic independence, he said. Citizens from all walks of life must contribute to national development. Economic strength is essential for improving the quality of life and ensuring long-term prosperity.
Malik also paid tribute to his late father, Zahid Malik (SI, HI), founder of the NPC and Pakistan Observer noting his lifelong work in promoting patriotism and civic responsibility.
Sanctions could not break our resolve MNA Anjum Aqeel Khan praised the organizers for keeping the significance of Youm-e-Takbeer alive.
It is a remarkable achievement for a developing country to attain nuclear capability despite facing numerous challenges and international restrictions,” he said. Sanctions were imposed on Pakistan after May 28, 1998, but the nation remained steadfast. That success elevated Pakistan’s stature globally and strengthened our position in international affairs.
Intellectual legacy and youth engagement Quaid-i-Azam University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zafar Nawaz Jaspal highlighted the intellectual contributions of the late Zahid Malik, saying his book Mohsin-e-Pakistan remains an important source for understanding Pakistan’s nuclear program and strategic development. He added: Pakistan’s attainment of credible military deterrence has enhanced its international standing and underscored its significance in regional and global affairs.
A recurring theme was the need to involve younger generations. Speakers said faith, discipline, and leadership were central to the success of the nuclear program and must guide future development. The presence of students and young professionals was described as an encouraging sign of growing interest in national issues.”
Tribute to Dr A.Q. Khan In his vote of thanks, Nazria Pakistan Council Chairman Mian Muhammad Javed paid special tribute to Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan. Dr Khan’s invaluable services and extraordinary contributions provided Pakistan with a strong and credible defence capability,” he said. “His remarkable achievements remain a lasting guarantee of the nation’s protection and sovereignty.”
Other speakers, including Prof Dr Jamal Nasir, former Provincial health minister Prof Dr Nazeer Ahmad, Prof Dr Muhammad Zeeshan Danish, and Waheed Sharif, paid tribute to scientists, political leaders, and the armed forces, and reaffirmed their commitment to national unity, security, and economic progress.
The seminar concluded with renewed pledges to work toward stability and prosperity, as participants expressed confidence that through unity, determination, and collective effort, Pakistan can overcome its challenges.
