Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in their messages on Youm-e-Takbeer have reiterated that Pakistan is a responsible and peace-loving nation that respects international laws and norms. The President in his message said the nuclear tests conducted 28 years ago established Pakistan's deterrence capability and made the country the seventh nuclear power in the world.
According to Radio Pakistan, paying tribute to the scientists, engineers, and armed forces, President Zardari highlighted their dedication, professionalism, and patriotism, which enabled Pakistan to achieve a historic milestone. He also acknowledged the role of national leadership and institutions in strengthening the country's strategic capabilities.
Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that the day bears testimony to the defence of Pakistan, envisioned by Allama Muhammad Iqbal and materialized by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, remaining in strong and capable hands. Describing Youm-e-Takbeer as more than a remembrance of nuclear tests, he noted it symbolizes national dignity, sacrifice, unity, and an unshakeable commitment to the defence of the homeland. He asserted that Pakistan's nuclear capability and the preparedness of its armed forces remain a decisive deterrent against enemy aggression.
On the 28th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu extended heartfelt felicitations to the proud people of Pakistan on behalf of the Armed Forces. They stated that this defining milestone symbolizes the nation's unity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national honour.
The statement further asserted that Pakistan's strategic capability remains a sacred national trust and a guarantor of peace, stability, territorial integrity, and credible deterrence in the region. It affirmed the Armed Forces of Pakistan's unwavering resolve to defend the motherland against all threats and their commitment to ensuring the security, stability, and prosperity of the nation.