On this day in 1998, Pakistan carried out five successful nuclear tests in Chagai, Balochistan followed by another nuclear test on May 30 in Kharan.
After these nuclear tests Pakistan became seventh nuclear power of the world and first in the Muslim world.
Special functions were arranged in various cities, including Islamabad and Lahore, to mark the day which is named ‘Youm-e-Takbeer.’
In response to these nuclear explosions‚ Pakistani nation had to face economic sanctions imposed by the international community, but it stood by its principled stance on the issue of national deterrence.
Pakistan state TV and radio aired special programmes to mark the day.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Communications Murad Saeed said Pakistan’s nuclear arsenals are a source of great pride for the entire nation.
He said Youm-e-Takbeer, is the day to recognize and appreciate those nuclear scientists, including Dr Abdul Qadeer, who made Pakistan nuclear power. He said Pakistan is facing internal and external challenges and time warrants unity to tackle them.
Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in his message on the eve of Youm-e-Takbeer, said “May 28 is a remarkable day in the history of Pakistan as on this day, country's defense was made invincible and Pakistan emerged as nuclear power on the map of the world.”
He said Youm-e-Takbeer is a sign of Pakistani nation’s unprecedented courage and bravery besides a message to the enemies of Pakistan that there would be dire consequences in case of any misadventure.
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