Islamabad: On the occasion of Youm-e-Takbir, President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message, termed Pakistan’s nuclear journey as the vision of leadership, the foundation of national unity and peaceful defense. He paid tribute to Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for laying the foundation of the nuclear program and said that under the patronage of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, this program was strengthened and moved forward.
President Zardari said that Pakistan’s nuclear power is not only a defense capability but also a manifestation of a peaceful strategy. He stressed that Pakistan has always adhered to the principles of balance, responsibility and tolerance.
Regarding India’s recent unprovoked aggression, he said that Pakistan gave a timely and effective response under Operation Banyan Marsus, which forced the enemy to stop aggressive actions.
He said that our nuclear capability not only maintains a defense balance but is also a permanent guarantee for national security. “We want peace, but will not compromise on our sovereignty,” President Zardari clarified.