On May 28th, Pakistan celebrates Youm-e-Takbir, a national day dedicated to commemorating the Chagai-I and Chagai-II series of nuclear tests. These tests, conducted on May 28, 1998, marked a historic milestone for Pakistan as it became the first nuclear power in the Islamic Nations and the seventh in the world, following the United States, Russia, United Kingdom, France, China, and India.
With gratitude to the Almighty Allah, our beloved nation proudly observes another Youm-e-Takbir today, acknowledging Pakistan’s attainment of nuclear power and its establishment of a robust defence deterrent. A strong defence system, bolstered by nuclear capabilities, is crucial for defeating hostile elements and ensuring our onward journey towards progress, development, and prosperity.
This anniversary represents a significant historic development that fills every Pakistani with genuine pride, transcending political affiliations, regional divisions, and other vested interests. Regardless of our differences, we unite in acknowledging the importance of this momentous occasion.
The decision to conduct nuclear tests was necessitated by India’s atomic bomb detonations on May 11th and 13th, 1998. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, leading the nation for a second term, responded decisively to India’s actions, making difficult but necessary choices after extensive consultations. On May 28, 1998, Pakistan successfully conducted five test firings in the Ras Koh Hills of the Chagai district in Balochistan, followed by a sixth test firing on May 30th of the same year.
The atomic program, initiated by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, during his tenure as PM of Pakistan was carried forward by another former PM Nawaz Sharif. Pakistan has consistently demonstrated responsible behavior as a nuclear power. It is the duty of every Pakistani citizen to safeguard our nation’s strength and prevent external pressures from turning our strength into weakness. Maintaining a steadfast approach, Pakistan continues to develop low-yield short-range missiles, effectively countering Indian attempts to undermine us on multiple fronts while safeguarding our political, economic, security, and sovereign interests.
In navigating our foreign relations, Pakistan’s policymakers must strike a delicate balance. We must continue engaging with the United States and the West while nurturing our promising relationships with China and Russia. Our foreign policy, the role of our government, and the behavior of the Pakistani people as the first Muslim nuclear power should reflect our potential and reinforce the spirit of Youm-e-Takbir. As Feroz Hassan Khan, a nuclear strategist, aptly stated in his book “Eating Grass: The Making of the Pakistani Bomb,” Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal has evolved into a powerful symbol of national determination and a central element of our identity.
As a sovereign, independent nation armed with atomic capabilities, Pakistan possesses the capacity to retaliate against foreign aggression. We have undoubtedly contributed significantly to maintaining the balance of power and ensuring peace in the region, especially in the face of India’s persistent hegemonic policies and its unlawful occupation of the internationally recognized disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
On this Youm-e-Takbir, let us reflect on our nation’s achievements and recommit ourselves to the ideals of progress, development, and peace. May Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities continue to serve as a potent deterrent, securing our sovereignty and fostering a brighter future for our nation and its people.