Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, addressed a special ceremony held in Islamabad today to commemorate Youm-e-Takbeer, marking the 27th anniversary of Pakistan’s historic nuclear tests on May 28, 1998.
Congratulating the nation on this significant day, the Minister highlighted the spirit of unity and national resolve that led to Pakistan becoming a nuclear power, adding that the same collective determination is now needed to transform Pakistan into an economic power. “On this day, we remember how the leadership of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and the resolve of the Pakistani nation demonstrated that no global force can deter us when we stand united,” he said.
Referring to the nuclear tests, the Minister recalled that India challenged Pakistan’s security in May 1998, but Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif responded with courage and conviction by authorizing Pakistan’s nuclear tests. “Had he not taken that bold decision, Pakistan would not be standing tall today,” Ahsan Iqbal said.
He also referred to recent events, including Indian aggression earlier this month, and praised the armed forces for their exemplary response. “On May 7, the enemy made another grave miscalculation and was met with a powerful response. Our Air Force demonstrated its superior capabilities by downing six Indian jets, sending a clear message to the world. On May 10, under the command of Field Marshal Asim Munir, our forces delivered such a strong reply that its echo was heard all the way to Washington,” he said.
Terming May 28 not just the day of nuclear tests but a historic turning point in the region’s security paradigm, the Minister emphasized the need to now replicate that success in the economic sphere. “Despite immense global pressure, we achieved nuclear capability. It is time to channel the same energy into making Pakistan an economic powerhouse,” he added.
He underscored that strengthening the economy is as vital as safeguarding national defense. “Nations today thrive not only on the battlefield but in laboratories, universities, and industries. We must focus on technology, exports, and productivity,” he urged.
Ahsan Iqbal stressed the importance of education in national progress, stating that Pakistan must raise its literacy rate to 90%. “The fact that 2.5 million children are out of school is our collective failure,” he noted. He also pointed out the low gross enrollment ratio in higher education, currently at 13%, compared to 30% in India and 50% in China. “We must increase this to at least 40%, and ensure digital connectivity for every citizen from Balochistan to Gilgit-Baltistan,” he said.
The Minister spoke about the government’s ongoing efforts to uplift the country through its flagship "Uraan Pakistan" program, which includes Rs. 54 billion worth of development projects. He said eliminating hepatitis nationwide is one of the government’s major health goals.
Highlighting fiscal challenges, Ahsan Iqbal noted that Pakistan’s tax-to-GDP ratio remains among the lowest in the world at just 10.5%. “Development cannot happen without increasing this ratio. We must either pay taxes or eliminate tax evasion. Every Pakistani must become an economic soldier,” he emphasized.
He urged the youth to focus on startups, innovation, and the 'Made in Pakistan' brand, and said that the long-term goal is to surpass India economically by 2047, when Pakistan celebrates 100 years of independence. “For 50 years, we led India in economic performance, but political instability cost us dearly. Now is the time to reclaim our position,” he asserted.
The Minister concluded by paying tribute to Pakistan’s scientists, engineers, and armed forces for making the nation proud. “Now, it is the nation’s turn to fulfill its responsibilities. If Pakistan is to be honored in the pages of history, every citizen must play their part,” he said. He expressed gratitude to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for his leadership in making Pakistan a nuclear power, and called upon the nation to adopt the same spirit and commitment to achieve economic sovereignty.
