- Chiefs call the achievements a symbol of national unity, resilience and determination.
- We pledge to continue focusing on national security, stability and prosperity.
- Describe the tests as key to establishing Pakistan’s nuclear deterrent.
Pakistan’s top military leadership on Thursday conveyed warm greetings to the nation on the 28th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer, reaffirming the armed forces’ unwavering commitment to safeguard the country from all challenges, according to the army’s media wing.
In a statement released by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Naval Staff, and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of Air Staff, congratulated the people of Pakistan on the occasion.
The military leadership said Youm-e-Takbeer commemorates the historic achievement of May 28, 1998, when Pakistan emerged as a nuclear power and restored strategic balance in South Asia.
“The defining milestone symbolizes the nation’s unity, resilience and unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national honor,” the statement said.
The country’s sentinels described the achievement as a testament to the country’s visionary leadership, the remarkable contributions of scientists and engineers and the sacrifices made by the armed forces and people of Pakistan.
The military’s media wing further said that Pakistan’s strategic capability remains a “sacred national trust” and serves as a guarantor of peace, stability, territorial integrity and credible deterrence in the region.
The armed forces committed to continue guaranteeing the security, stability and prosperity of the country, redoubling their commitment to national defense.
“On this momentous occasion, bowing humbly before the Almighty, the Pakistani nation renews its pledge of unity, vigilance, resilience and dedication for a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan,” the ISPR statement added.
On May 28, 1998, Pakistan conducted its nuclear tests in Chagai, Balochistan, in response to India’s nuclear explosions earlier that month. The tests marked the emergence of Pakistan as a declared nuclear power and are considered to have restored the strategic balance in South Asia.
This development is credited with establishing Pakistan’s nuclear deterrent. The day is celebrated annually as Youm-e-Takbeer to commemorate the milestone and reaffirm the country’s defense capabilities.
