ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is currently in the midst of fervent celebrations as the nation commemorates the 25th anniversary of its nuclear tests conducted on May 28, 1998.
This historic milestone marked a significant turning point, enabling Pakistan to achieve invincible defense capabilities and establish regional stability through a delicate power equilibrium.
The anniversary, now known as Youm-i-Takbeer, is celebrated nationwide each year as a day of national pride and gratitude. It commemorates Pakistan’s transformation into the seventh nuclear nation globally and the first Muslim state with a nuclear arsenal, which serves as a deterrent for peaceful purposes.
The nuclear tests not only showcased the unwavering determination of the Pakistani nation to safeguard its territorial integrity, independence, and sovereignty but also reflected its commitment to preserving strategic balance in South Asia.
The visionary statement made by former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, expressing the nation’s willingness to endure hardships to become a nuclear power, played a pivotal role in achieving this significant milestone.
On that momentous day, despite external pressures and India’s attempts to disrupt the power balance through its own nuclear tests, the Pakistani leadership fearlessly responded by conducting nuclear tests, effectively restoring equilibrium in South Asia.
The events of May 28, 1998, marked a monumental occasion in Pakistan’s history, effectively silencing the bellicose ruling junta in the neighbouring country, which had been promoting ill-conceived expansionist ambitions.
Youm-e-Takbeer, meaning “the day when Allah’s name was exalted,” rejuvenates the indomitable spirit of a nation that refuses to succumb to the repeated threats from warmongering mindsets in its vicinity.
The history of acquiring modern nuclear technology for peaceful purposes underscores the commitment, patriotism, and steadfastness of the Pakistani leadership in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.
Pakistan’s decision to accelerate its nuclear program was largely influenced by India’s first nuclear test in 1974, which compelled Pakistan to act swiftly and resolutely.
Amidst the resounding chants of “Allah-o-Akbar,” Pakistan conducted its first nuclear test on May 28, 1998, in the Ras Koh hills of the Chaghai district in Balochistan.
Despite mounting external pressures urging restraint, the then Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, made the courageous decision to conduct the tests, effectively rebalancing the strategic power dynamics in the region.
Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to promote a peaceful and stable environment in South Asia while maintaining its capability to defend against aggression or adventurism in any form.
As a responsible member of the international community, Pakistan actively supports global non-proliferation efforts based on the principles of non-discrimination and equal security for all states.
The country adheres to the highest international standards regarding export controls and prioritizes nuclear safety and security as paramount concerns.
