Pakistan is celebrating the 27th anniversary of its historic nuclear tests conducted on May 28, 1998—an event remembered as Youm-e-Takbir (The Day of Greatness), marking the day the country officially joined the ranks of nuclear-armed nations. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued heartfelt messages to the nation, hailing the occasion as a testament to national strength, scientific achievement, and unwavering sovereignty.
Youm-e-Takbir: A Day of National Pride
On this day in 1998, Pakistan carried out five successful nuclear tests in the rugged mountains of Chagai, Balochistan, in direct response to India’s nuclear tests earlier that same month. Under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan boldly demonstrated its nuclear capabilities, becoming the seventh nuclear power in the world. The tests forever altered the strategic balance in South Asia and solidified Pakistan’s position as a formidable force on the global stage.
In remembrance of this pivotal day, the nation is observing a public holiday. Special events, ceremonies, and national salutes are being held to honor the scientists, armed forces, and leadership who made the nuclear program a reality.
PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Message: A Nation Built on Resolve
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his special message, reminded the nation of the challenges faced in 1998 and the unwavering resolve shown by Pakistan’s leadership. Twenty-seven years ago, we made the world recognize our strength. Despite international pressure, sanctions, and threats, Pakistan chose dignity and defense over compromise,he said.
The Prime Minister paid glowing tribute to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who made the critical decision to go forward with the tests. Nawaz Sharif represented the true aspirations of the Pakistani people. He ignored immense external pressure and made Pakistan’s geographical borders invincible,he stated.
Highlighting recent developments, PM Shehbaz also linked this year’s celebrations to recent victories in regional tensions, stating that the spirit of Youm-e-Takbir lives on in Pakistan’s modern-day resilience.
The echoes of Allahu Akbar from the mountains of Chagai still resonate today, symbolizing our unity, faith, and strength as a nation,he added.
He went on to honor the individuals who laid the groundwork for the program, saying, We salute Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, our brilliant scientists, engineers, and the Pakistani Armed Forces for their unmatched dedication and sacrifices.
President Zardari: A Commitment to Peace and Power
President Asif Ali Zardari also addressed the nation with a message of unity, pride, and strategic vision. On this historic day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people of Pakistan. Youm-e-Takbir is a symbol of our nation’s determination to protect its sovereignty and secure peace through strength,he said.
He highlighted the monumental role of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who laid the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear program. The acquisition of nuclear capability was not merely a technological triumph, but a visionary step to maintain peace in a volatile region, the President noted.
Zardari emphasized that while Pakistan’s nuclear strength is a deterrent, the country remains committed to peace. “We do not seek conflict. We believe in peaceful coexistence, international cooperation, and adherence to global laws, he stated.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s strategic doctrine, President Zardari said, Our nuclear capability serves as a credible minimum deterrent. It guarantees our national security and preserves peace in the region.
A Day to Renew National Commitment
Both leaders underlined that Youm-e-Takbir is more than a celebration—it is a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s pledge to unity, independence, and defense. The day also underscores the critical role of national institutions, scientists, and armed forces in safeguarding the country’s interests.
In a joint spirit, the President and Prime Minister called on all Pakistanis to honor this day by recommitting to national development, technological progress, and internal harmony.
As the country celebrates this milestone, the mountains of Chagai remain etched in the nation’s memory—a symbol of scientific triumph, national will, and unshakable sovereignty. Youm-e-Takbir stands not only as a reminder of Pakistan’s entry into the nuclear club but as an enduring emblem of its resolve to defend peace, prosperity, and independence at all costs.
