ISLAMABAD: The nation is passionately celebrating the 25th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer on May 28 (Sunday) to recall Pakistan’s first nuclear tests conducted on May 28, 1998, that took the country to the achievement of invincible defense capabilities and stability through power equilibrium in the region.
After that historic event, the day, now remembered as Youm-e-Takbeer, is celebrated every year in the country as a symbol of national pride and thanksgivings, which made Pakistan the first Islamic and seventh nuclear nation in the world, having the nuclear capability in its stockpile to exercise maximum deterrence for peaceful purpose.
On the day in 1998, when Pakistan conducted the tests faced severe international pressure, even though it was India who first conducted tests, creating an imbalance in the region. However, Pakistan showed courage with a deserving response to India and the world, managed to avoid conflict, and restored the balance of power in the region by having nuclear tests.
Nation and Youm-e-Takbeer
Youm-e-Takbeer, which means “the day when the name of Almighty Allah name was exalted,” regularly infuses fresh blood into the high soaring spirits of a nation.
It is worth mentioning here that the government of Mian Nawaz Sharif announced and included the nation to suggest a name for the day. Later after receiving thousands of names, Youm-e-Takbeer was finalized as the official name for the day.
It is also worth to be noted that in 1974 India tested its “device” for the first time, which compelled Pakistan to initiate its nuclear program. These days a historical statement of the then Prime Minister of Pakistan, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, remained in people’s minds and said that people of the country would prefer to starve but would lead the country into nuclear power.
The day, the nation not only celebrates the historical event when Pakistan achieved its defense capabilities but also reminds the world that Pakistan is a responsible country always committed to promoting an environment of peace and stability in South Asia while preserving its strength to ward off aggression or adventurism in any form in the region. The country also adheres to the latest international standards on export controls and keeps the highest standards of nuclear safety and security.
