President, PM vow to protect sovereignty on Youm-e-Takbeer

Pakistan’s leadership reaffirmed the country’s commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity on Wednesday as the nation observed the 27th anniversary of its nuclear tests, celebrated as Youm-e-Takbeer.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in separate messages, emphasized Pakistan’s nuclear capability as a deterrent ensuring national security. Zardari called the 1998 tests a milestone that established "strategic deterrence," paying tribute to scientists, engineers, and leaders like Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto for their contributions.

He reiterated Pakistan’s stance on peaceful coexistence but noted its readiness to respond to aggression, referencing India’s 2019 actions and Pakistan’s measured retaliation under Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos.

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PM Shehbaz linked the anniversary to Pakistan’s recent defense against "an unjustified war imposed by India," praising the nation’s resilience. He hailed the 1998 tests—conducted under then-PM Nawaz Sharif—as a demonstration of resolve despite global pressure. Shehbaz urged unity to transform Pakistan into an economic power while maintaining defense strength.

The military’s top leadership, including the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, extended felicitations, calling the nuclear program a "national trust" and reaffirming its defensive purpose. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated Pakistan’s doctrine of "credible minimum deterrence" aims for regional stability.

The Foreign Office echoed the sentiment, pledging to safeguard sovereignty while promoting peace. The day was marked by tributes to scientists and leaders, with calls for continued vigilance and unity.