Youm-e-Takbeer symbolises Pakistan’s strategic sovereignty, says President Zardari

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

President, Asif Ali Zardari has said that Youm-e-Takbeer marked a defining moment in the country’s history, describing May 28, 1998 as the day Pakistan attained strategic sovereignty and ensured an impregnable defence of its independence and territorial integrity through successful nuclear tests at Chagai.

In his message on Youm-e-Takbeer 2026, the president said the nuclear tests conducted 28 years ago established Pakistan’s deterrence capability and made the country the seventh nuclear power in the world. He said Pakistan’s nuclear programme was initiated in response to India’s nuclear ambitions and regional security challenges following the 1971 war and India’s first nuclear test at Pokhran in 1974.

President Zardari said successive Pakistani governments had faced international pressure, sanctions and other challenges aimed at deterring the country from pursuing its strategic programme, but Pakistan remained steadfast in protecting its sovereignty and national security interests.

Paying tribute to the scientists, engineers and armed forces, he said their dedication, professionalism and patriotism enabled Pakistan to achieve a historic milestone. He also acknowledged the role of national leadership and institutions in strengthening the country’s strategic capabilities.

Referring to the events of May 1998, the president said India’s second nuclear tests posed a grave challenge to Pakistan’s security, prompting the country’s political and military leadership to take what he termed a decisive step in line with national aspirations and interests.

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Despite economic sanctions, threats and international pressure, Pakistan conducted its nuclear tests on May 28, 1998, thereby restoring the balance of power in South Asia, he added.

The president said the achievement reflected national unity and collective resolve in defending the country’s independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. He described Pakistan’s nuclear capability as one of the nation’s most valuable assets and a trust representing the aspirations of the people.

Highlighting evolving security challenges, President Zardari said modern warfare increasingly involved cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, drones and other advanced technologies alongside nuclear deterrence. He said Pakistan’s armed forces had equipped themselves with expertise in these domains and demonstrated professional excellence during “Marka-e-Haq” last year.

He reiterated that Pakistan was a responsible and peace-loving nation that respected international laws and norms, while reserving the right to self-defence under the United Nations Charter. Referring to “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos,” the president said Pakistan had responded effectively to Indian aggression last year, attributing the success to national unity and the professionalism of the armed forces.

President Zardari said Youm-e-Takbeer also served as a reminder of the nation’s commitment to safeguarding the motherland against all threats. He expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to meet future challenges through self-reliance, innovation and professional excellence.

Concluding his message, the president prayed for the prosperity and security of the country and reaffirmed national unity in defence of Pakistan.