PM Shehbaz says Youm-e-Takbeer symbolises Pakistan’s strength, sovereignty, national unity

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2026) PM-Takbeer-Message***EMBARGOED TILL 2359 HOURS ON WEDNESDAY***

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said Youm-e-Takbeer stands as a defining moment in Pakistan’s history when the nation demonstrated unwavering resolve, unity and courage by emerging as a nuclear power and restoring the strategic balance in South Asia.

In his message on the occasion of Youm-e-Takbeer to be observed on May 28, the prime minister said Pakistan conducted successful nuclear tests on May 28, 1998 in response to India’s nuclear explosions, sending a clear message to the world that the country would never compromise on its defence and sovereignty.

He said the day bears testimony that the defence of Pakistan, envisioned by Allama Muhammad Iqbal and materialised by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, remained in strong and capable hands.

Prime Minister Shehbaz paid tribute to all personalities who contributed to Pakistan’s nuclear programme, including former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for his vision and Nawaz Sharif for his leadership and decision-making during a critical period. He also acknowledged the services of national heroes Abdul Qadeer Khan and Samar Mubarakmand, along with scientists, engineers, experts, armed forces personnel and workers who played a historic role in making Pakistan’s defence impregnable.

The prime minister said India carried out nuclear tests driven by militaristic ambitions and expansionist designs, while Pakistan responded with wisdom and determination to foil hostile intentions. He noted that despite international pressure, economic threats and financial inducements, then prime minister Nawaz Sharif refused to compromise on the country’s independence and security.

Describing Youm-e-Takbeer as more than a remembrance of nuclear tests, Prime Minister Shehbaz said it symbolises national dignity, sacrifice, unity and an unshakeable commitment to the defence of the homeland.

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He said Pakistan’s nuclear capability and the preparedness of its armed forces remained a decisive deterrent against enemy aggression.

Referring to recent tensions with India, the prime minister said, Pakistan had demonstrated its resolve by delivering a “befitting response” to aggression during “Marka-e-Haq.” He accused India of staging the “Pahalgam false flag operation” and targeting Pakistani civilians and mosques under that pretext, adding that Pakistan’s armed forces and nation stood united like “Bunyan-un-Marsoos” to thwart enemy designs and challenge its perceived military superiority.

Prime Minister Shehbaz praised the leadership of Syed Asim Munir, stating that the armed forces displayed exceptional professionalism under his command. He also commended Zaheer Ahmad Babar and Naveed Ashraf for their exemplary performance.

The prime minister said Pakistan has no aggressive intentions against any country but retained the full right to defend itself. He warned that after facing setbacks in direct confrontation, hostile forces were now attempting to undermine Pakistan’s security through proxy elements, including “Fitna al-Khawarij” and “Fitna al-Hindustan.”

He said Pakistan remained determined to eliminate all such threats and their facilitators through continued operations, including “Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos” and “Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed that Pakistan’s armed forces were fully prepared and equipped with modern capabilities to defend every inch of the motherland. He urged the nation to renew its pledge for unity, stability, peace and progress and to continue working collectively for a strong, prosperous and dignified Pakistan.