Youm-e-Takbeer: PM honours Pakistan’s nuclear pioneers, vows economic strength

On the occasion of Youm-e-Takbeer, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the nation’s historic achievement of becoming a nuclear power in 1998, emphasizing the day as a symbol of national unity and unwavering commitment to Pakistan’s freedom and sovereignty.

In his message, the premier recalled the bold decision by then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who, despite facing economic sanctions, international pressure, and threats, authorised six nuclear tests in May 1998, thereby cementing Pakistan’s status as a nuclear power and rendering its geographical borders invincible.

“Nawaz Sharif represented the aspirations and national interests of the entire nation,” the prime minister said, hailing the leaders, scientists, and armed forces who contributed to the historic nuclear programme.

Highlighting the significance of Youm-e-Takbeer, PM Sharif noted that the day marks not only the successful nuclear tests but also Pakistan’s victory in 'Marka-e-Haq' against India’s aggression from May 6 to 10, 1998.

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“The voice of Allahu Akbar rising from the mountains of Chagai in Balochistan still echoes as a pledge of the Pakistani nation,” he said.

He paid homage to the pioneers of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, including Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, as well as to the armed forces and national institutions that safeguarded the country’s defence capabilities.

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“The nation made immense sacrifices and demonstrated unwavering faith to complete this mission,” the Prime Minister added.

Shehbaz Sharif further linked the spirit of Youm-e-Takbeer to the enduring legacy of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, describing the day as a continuation of the Muslims’ struggle in the subcontinent that ultimately led to the creation of Pakistan.

He asserted that the strength of Pakistan lies in the resilience and determination of its people and armed forces to overcome challenges in all spheres of life.

PM Shehbaz concluded by reaffirming the nation’s pledge to preserve its sovereignty and freedom without compromise. “Today, we pledge to make Pakistan an economic power and give Pakistan its rightful place in the world,” he said.