Pakistan Marks Youm-e-Takbeer and Youm-e-Tashakur with Pride in Consulate General of Pakistan in Melbourne 28 May 2025
The Consulate General of Pakistan in Melbourne commemorated the historic day of Youm-e-Takbeer and Youm-e-Tashakur on Tuesday with a dignified ceremony, reaffirming national pride and celebrating a key moment in Pakistan’s modern history. The event was attended by members of the Pakistani diaspora, community leaders, and diplomatic staff.
Youm-e-Takbeer—meaning “the day of greatness”—marks May 28, 1998, when Pakistan conducted successful nuclear tests in the hills of Chagai, Balochistan, becoming the first Muslim-majority country to attain nuclear deterrence. This bold move came in response to India’s nuclear tests earlier that month, and established a strategic balance in South Asia.
Speaking at the event, Acting Consul General of Pakistan in Melbourne, Hon. Syeda Fatima Bukhari, reflected on the profound significance of the day.
“Alhamdulillah, on this day in 1998, Pakistan became the first Muslim country to possess nuclear capability,” she said. “Today, we are not only celebrating Youm-e-Takbeer, but also Youm-e-Tashakur—a day of gratitude. We thank Allah Almighty, pay tribute to our scientists, and salute the unmatched courage of our armed forces who ensured Pakistan’s sovereignty and security.”
She further added that the nuclear tests were not a demonstration of aggression, but a necessary step to maintain peace and safeguard Pakistan’s national interests in a volatile region.
“This achievement was not about war—it was about peace through strength. It was a message that Pakistan will always stand firm in defending its territorial integrity and the rights of its people,” Bukhari noted.
The ceremony included a recitation from the Holy Quran, a documentary screening highlighting the events of May 1998, and a moment of silence to honour those who contributed to Pakistan’s nuclear program. Attendees also joined in special prayers (dua) for the continued prosperity, strength, and unity of the nation.
Youm-e-Tashakur, introduced in more recent years, reflects the deep sense of thankfulness felt by the nation—both to Allah and to those who played key roles in securing Pakistan’s nuclear status. The day is also a reminder of the collective effort made by political leaders, military personnel, and scientists such as Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, often referred to as the father of Pakistan’s nuclear program.
Across Pakistan and in Pakistani missions worldwide, the day was marked with ceremonies, educational events, and media broadcasts highlighting the strategic significance of May 28.
As Acting Consul General Bukhari concluded in her remarks:
“This day reminds us that with unity, faith, and discipline, no challenge is insurmountable for the Pakistani nation.”
Reporting by Toori
Voice of Australia ,Melbourne
