Pakistan’s credible minimum nuclear deterrence restored balance of power on 28th May: DG ISPR

Islamabad- Yaum-e-Takbeer observed on Friday to commemorate historic nuclear tests Pakistan conducted on this day in 1998.The nuclear explosions, which were conducted in self-defence to respond to India’s aggression of nuclear tests, made Pakistan’s defence invincible. As a result, Pakistan became the first nuclear power in the Muslim world and seventh in the world. Director General Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Babar Iftikhar in a tweet on Youm-e-Takbeer on Friday said that 23 years ago on this day, Pakistan restored balance of power in the region by successfully establishing credible minimum nuclear deterrence. He said Armed Forces and the nation pay tribute to all those involved in making this dream come true. Meanwhile, Foreign Office Spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri in a statement says 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 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. This underscores the role of nuclear science and technology in the socio-economic development of the country and the welfare of its people.

This day conveys the message of immense power of defence for Pakistan especially for the revival of whole Muslim Ummah. Almost 24 years after the first detonation of Indian nuclear device, as a sequel and expected consequence of India’s 1998 nuclear tests, despite immense international pressure especially from the US, Pakistan was compelled to conduct at least six nuclear tests in response to Indian grand scheme.

Our foreign policy, governments’ role and people of Pakistan’s behavior as a First Muslim nuclear power must portray our potentials and viable enough to maintain the spirit and essence of Youm-e-Takbeer. Pakistan went nuclear to ensure its survival against imminent threats emerging from nuclear India and the catastrophic failure of US foreign policy in South Asia. It sees its nuclear weapons as a means of insulating the country against the dangers of hostile intentions from across the border.