ISLAMABAD: Youm-e-Takbeer is being observed today (Friday) to mark the 23rd anniversary of Pakistan’s historic nuclear tests.
It was on this day in 1998 that Pakistan was forced to take that decision as a response and in self-defence to the nuclear tests accompanying hostile posturing by its neighbor, India. As a result, Pakistan became the first nuclear power in the Muslim world and seventh in the world.
Director-General (DG) Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Babar Iftikhar, in a tweet, said 23 years ago on this day, Pakistan restored balance of power in the region by successfully establishing credible minimum nuclear deterrence. “Armed Forces and the nation pay tribute to all those involved in making this dream come true,” he added.
Meanwhile, Foreign Office Spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri in a statement said Pakistan is committed to continue working towards the promotion of environment of peace and stability at the regional and global levels.
He said the nation reaffirms its resolve to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence against any form of aggression.
The spokesperson further said Pakistan has been actively contributing to international efforts for strengthening global norms on arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament and follows latest international standards on export controls, nuclear safety and security at the national level.
He said this year, Youm-e-Takbeer has been marked by the inauguration of 1100MW K-2 Nuclear Power Plant in Karachi which adds much valuable, cleaner, reliable and affordable electricity to the national energy mix.
