CULTURE
![Pakistan Commemorates Youm-i-Takbeer: Leaders Celebrate Nation's Nuclear Achievements](https://4thpillarpost.com/uploads/news/280520241632133.jpeg)
Pakistan observed Youm-i-Takbeer on Tuesday, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Acting President Yusuf Raza Gilani praising the nation’s “unwavering determination” to become a nuclear power under the “bold leadership” of then-premier Nawaz Sharif.
Youm-i-Takbeer, celebrated on May 28, marks the day in 1998 when Pakistan conducted nuclear tests in the hills of Chagai, Balochistan, joining the ranks of global nuclear powers. This historic event made Pakistan the seventh nuclear nation in the world and the first Muslim state to possess a nuclear arsenal.
Ahead of the celebrations, PM Shehbaz had declared the day a public holiday nationwide. The day began with special prayers and recitations of the Holy Quran in mosques across the country, praying for Pakistan's peace and prosperity.
Radio Pakistan highlighted that Pakistan carried out the atomic tests in response to India's nuclear explosions, strengthening the country’s defense capabilities despite international pressure. Social media was abuzz with government accounts and Radio Pakistan using the hashtag #Hum28MayWalayHain to honor Youm-i-Takbeer.
Rallies took place in Rawalpindi and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Swabi and Orakzai, where participants displayed national flags and chanted slogans supporting the Pakistan Army.
In his message, PM Shehbaz emphasized that May 28 “encapsulates the narrative of our nation’s arduous yet remarkable path towards establishing a credible minimum deterrence.” He praised Nawaz Sharif for demonstrating leadership by rejecting immense pressures and inducements to make Pakistan a nuclear-armed nation.
Shehbaz also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, whom he credited as the “founder of Pakistan’s nuclear program” due to his strategic foresight and commitment.
Acting President Gilani highlighted Youm-i-Takbeer as a “testament to our nation’s resilience” and a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s history. He commended the scientists and engineers whose dedication and hard work made the nuclear achievement possible.
Gilani also acknowledged former premier Benazir Bhutto’s support for conducting the nuclear tests, illustrating the collective determination of Pakistan’s civil and military leadership.
“Pakistan, as a responsible nuclear state, firmly believes in the peaceful resolution of conflicts,” Gilani asserted, emphasizing the country's commitment to maintaining credible minimum deterrence and adhering to international standards for nuclear safety.
Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza and other military chiefs congratulated the nation, reaffirming the armed forces' dedication to defending Pakistan's sovereignty and security.
National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq noted that the nuclear tests demonstrated Pakistan’s ability to face challenges with determination and ensured regional power balance.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, daughter of Nawaz Sharif, described Youm-i-Takbeer as a day of pride for Pakistan and the Islamic world. She reiterated the mission to make Pakistan economically invincible.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari honored the legacy of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto, highlighting their contributions to Pakistan’s nuclear program. He reaffirmed the PPP's commitment to maintaining credible minimum deterrence and opposing global arms races.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar emphasized that the nuclear tests of May 28 declared Pakistan’s resistance to any form of subjugation. He paid tribute to Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan and his team for their contributions to the nuclear program.
As Pakistan commemorates this historic day, its leaders and citizens reflect on the nation's journey and achievements, vowing to continue strengthening the country’s defense and striving for peace and stability.