Pakistan Muslim League-N chief Nawaz Sharif waves to his supporters. -AP File Photo

LAHORE Pakistan Muslim League-N chief Nawaz Sharif says the country's nuclear command and control system is safer than any other country in the world.

Speaking at a ceremony held in Lahore on Thursday to mark Yaum-e-Takbeer, the day Pakistan detonated its nuclear arsenal on May 28, 1998, when Nawaz was the prime minister, he said Pakistans nuclear arsenal was safe and under a reliable command and control system.

Congratulating the nation and party workers on the day, he spoke of the pressure he faced from the international community before and after undertaking the nuclear tests which, he observed, were a reflection of the wishes and aspirations of the people.

The day will always remain a golden day in the history of Pakistan.

When India tested its nukes, I decided to do the same and directed the then army chief Jahangir Karamat to prepare for the nuclear tests.

He said Islamabad gave a befitting response to India. The time and site of detonation was kept secret as there were reports from across the border that preparations were under way to attack the site, he added.

Nawaz said he received several phone calls from US President Bill Clinton and other world leaders but remained adamant as it was a matter of defence and honour for the country.
 
After the tests, he added, Indian tone completely changed. (Then Indian prime minister) Vajpayee came to Pakistan and visited Minar-e-Pakistan.

The PML-N chief urged political leadership of the country to unite in the face of huge challenges like rehabilitation of the internally displaced persons, drone attacks, and deteriorated law and order situation in federal areas and Swat.

Nawaz said PML-N would extend unconditional support to the government for implementing the Charter of Democracy.

Earlier, prayers were offered for victims of the Wednesday's explosion in Lahore which claimed more than two dozen lives.

Meanwhile, PML-N workers celebrated the day by distributing sweets in the city while a couple of seminars were also arranged, one of which was addressed by celebrated nuclear scientist Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan.