YAUM-E-TAKBEER: Echoes of 1998’s nuclear tests were heard again on May 10: Tessori

A special ceremony was held at the Sindh Governor House on Wednesday to commemorate Yaum-e-Takbeer, in which Governor Kamran Khan Tessori said that the echoes of the nuclear tests conducted on May 28, 1998, were heard again this May 10, when the enemy’s arrogance was shattered.

Tessori said May 28 is a day of pride, determination and dignity for the entire nation. Declaring the nuclear tests a guarantee of Pakistan’s security and sovereignty, he said Yaum-e-Takbeer is a golden chapter in the nation’s history that can never be forgotten. He remarked that challenging Pakistan in May is equivalent to challenging the will of its people.

Referring to the Indian aggression of May 10, he said that when the enemy tested us, it was stunned by the passion and unity of the Pakistani nation. He praised Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for inspiring the nation with renewed spirit, hope and courage through his professional leadership.

The governor also paid rich tributes to Pakistan’s nuclear scientists and patriotic leadership, saying that the entire nation holds those who made Pakistan a nuclear power in high regard. He expressed confidence that Pakistan would also climb the ladder of economic success, and the world would witness its commercial growth.

Commenting on the recent cowardly terrorist attack in Khuzdar, he said that such acts cannot break the spirit of the Pakistani nation. The enemy has witnessed the practical demonstration of Pakistan’s unity, faith and sacrifice, and nations who stand united cause fear in their enemies’ hearts, he added. He affirmed that the heirs of Pakistan’s martyrs remain proud and resolute, and their sacrifices would never go in vain.

Addressing the youth, Tessori urged them to recognise that they are citizens of a sovereign, dignified and powerful state. He made the assurance that all minority communities in Pakistan live with complete freedom and protection. The ceremony was attended by notable personalities from various walks of life.

‘Strong message’

In his message, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah extended heartfelt congratulations to the nation on the occasion of Yaum-e-Takbeer, marking the day as a symbol of Pakistan’s defensive sovereignty and national dignity.

“May 28 is a historic day when Pakistan, in 1998, conducted successful nuclear tests and demonstrated to the world that we will never compromise on our defence,” said Shah. He emphasised that Yaum-e-Takbeer reflects the nation’s unwavering determination, the relentless efforts of its scientists, and the farsighted decisions of its leadership.

Paying tribute to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, he recalled that after India’s nuclear tests in 1974, Bhutto laid the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear programme and famously said: “We will eat grass, but we will make the atomic bomb.”

He also praised Benazir Bhutto for her pivotal role in strengthening Pakistan’s defence. “She not only advanced the nuclear programme but also took bold steps such as initiating the ballistic missile programme, which significantly enhanced our national security. Her leadership prepared the country to face future threats with resilience.”

The CM said that Pakistan’s nuclear tests were not merely a technical success but a powerful assertion of sovereignty and a strong message to adversaries. “Today we salute the sacrifices and patriotism of our great leaders and scientists who made this achievement possible.”

He concluded his message with a pledge: “We reaffirm our commitment to realising the dreams of our martyrs and visionary leaders. We will continue striving to build a strong, prosperous and sovereign Pakistan.”