ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari said on the occasion of Youm-e-Takbeer that Pakistan is a responsible and peace-loving nuclear state.
In his message, Zardari said May 28, 1998, marked a historic milestone that made Pakistan’s defence “invincible” and granted the country strategic sovereignty.
He said Pakistan developed its nuclear programme in line with national security requirements and paid tribute to the country’s scientists and armed forces for their contributions.
The president noted that despite international pressure and sanctions, Pakistan protected its national interests and maintained its strategic direction.
He added that Pakistan’s defence strategy contributes to peace and stability in the region, stressing that modern warfare now includes cyber warfare, artificial intelligence and drone technology.
Zardari said Pakistan harbours no aggressive intentions against any country but warned that any act of aggression would be met with a swift and strong response.
Youm-e-Takbeer is observed annually on May 28 to mark Pakistan’s nuclear tests in Chaghai, Balochistan, conducted in response to India’s nuclear tests in 1998.