Pakistan Army’s team has been awarded the Gold Medal in Exercise Cambrian Patrol 2024, which concluded today in Wales, United Kingdom.

The event, held from the 4th to the 13th of this month, marked the sixty-fifth anniversary of the exercise, which upholds demanding professional standards.

Patrols from around the globe had to move tactically across inhospitable terrain, covering a distance of sixty kilometers within forty-eight hours while completing specialized tasks in a contested environment.

This year, one hundred and twenty-eight teams from forty-two countries participated in the exercise, and the Pakistan Army’s team demonstrated exceptional performance and secured the gold medal.

Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, affectionately known as A.Q. Khan, is widely celebrated as the “Father of Pakistan’s Nuclear Program.” His contributions to science and defense not only elevated Pakistan to a new level of self-reliance but also safeguarded the nation’s sovereignty in a volatile region. For many Pakistanis, Dr. Khan is more than a scientist—he is a national hero whose legacy of patriotism, brilliance, and resilience continues to inspire generations.

Early Life and Education

Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan was born on April 1, 1936, in Bhopal, India. In the aftermath of the partition in 1947, his family migrated to Pakistan. After completing his early education, Khan pursued higher studies in Europe, earning a degree in metallurgy from the Netherlands and later, a doctorate in metallurgical engineering from Belgium.

His education in Europe allowed him to work with some of the most advanced technology of the time. He gained valuable experience working at a European uranium enrichment facility, where he learned the intricacies of centrifuge technology—a technology that would play a pivotal role in his future efforts to develop Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities.

Contribution to Pakistan’s Nuclear Program

In the early 1970s, following Pakistan’s defeat in the 1971 war and India’s successful nuclear test in 1974, the need for Pakistan to develop its nuclear deterrent became urgent. It was at this crucial juncture that Dr. A.Q. Khan offered his services to the government of Pakistan.

Khan’s return to Pakistan marked the beginning of a transformative era in the country’s defense strategy. He was given charge of the Kahuta Research Laboratories (now called Khan Research Laboratories), where he spearheaded Pakistan’s uranium enrichment efforts. Despite limited resources and immense international pressure, Dr. Khan and his team achieved remarkable success. Under his leadership, Pakistan conducted its first successful nuclear test on May 28, 1998, in response to India’s earlier tests, making it the first Muslim-majority country to possess nuclear weapons.

Safeguarding Pakistan’s Sovereignty

Dr. Khan’s role in the successful development of nuclear technology is widely regarded as a crucial factor in maintaining Pakistan’s security and sovereignty. His work ensured that Pakistan had a credible deterrent against external aggression, particularly in light of the hostile relations with its neighbor, India.

The achievement not only bolstered Pakistan’s standing in the global community but also instilled a sense of pride and security within the nation. For many, Dr. Khan became a symbol of national pride, courage, and determination in the face of adversity.

National Hero and Legacy

Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan passed away on October 10, 2021, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the history of Pakistan. His funeral was attended by thousands, including political leaders, military officials, and citizens from all walks of life. He was laid to rest with full state honors, a testament to the nation’s deep respect and gratitude for his services.

Dr. Khan’s work ensured that Pakistan remained secure in an unpredictable geopolitical landscape. His contributions to science and defense transformed the country, empowering it with a nuclear deterrent that still serves as a cornerstone of its defense strategy today.

Conclusion

Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan will always be remembered as a visionary who dedicated his life to serving Pakistan. His brilliance as a scientist, his unwavering commitment to his country, and his determination to see Pakistan rise as a strong, independent nation make him a true national hero. His legacy is a reminder that through perseverance, knowledge, and love for one’s country, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome. Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan will forever remain the “Real Hero of Pakistan.”

United Pakistan

Gilgit Say Gwadar, Karachi Say Peshawar, Aik Qaum is a perfect phrase to describe the concept of united Pakistan. The lining of the map is zigzag but a stream of patriotism flows straight from the top point to the bottom and then rises from the bottom to the top. People at one end of this country hold differences like that of culture, climate, and adaptation. And this distinction remains the same at every end of the country. However, all the diversities are fully respected and enjoyed by the people of Pakistan. Because all belong to one nation (AikQaum) and that is Pakistani.

 Gilgit Baltistan is the northern end of Pakistan that is a bouquet of various ethnic groups with variations in lifestyle and tradition. But all of them love and care for each other. This part of Pakistan is a hub of tourism. It connects the rest of the country with China and that makes it strategic. The talented masses have always been presenting Pakistan internationally. The people never wait for a second when there is a chance of sacrifices. There are hundreds of Lalak Jans who are ready to protect this land at any cost. And millions of them are fearless to climb the height. Their determination towards destinies takes us to the storyline from Ali Sadpara to Samina Baig.

However, Gwadar is the hub of natural resources and a strategic connector. It is the womb to CPEC. And CPEC is the game changer and key to the progress of not just Pakistan and China but also to the neighboring countries. The strategic location of the Gwadar makes Pakistan the strategic connector and presents it as a route to reach out to most of the world. The under-construction projects of Gwadar have created opportunities for overall Pakistanis, especially for the lower class.

Whereas Karachi is home to a range of industries that generate the revenue of the country. The city of light is the capital of Sindh province. It is a transport hub and is home to Pakistan’s two largest seaports, the Port of Karachi and Port Bin Qasim, as well as Pakistan’s busiest airport, the Jinnah International Airport. Karachi serves the country with the influx of goods and foreign visitors.

Moreover, the Punjab province connects the city of light with the city of flowers. The second-largest province of Pakistan in the field of agriculture. It makes Pakistan the agricultural land and provides nutrients not just to its own people but also to the world. Further, this province is the center of attraction for people because of its historical importance. This part has preserved the old heritage. It invites from all over the country for getting top-class education.

Besides this, KPK province completes the circle. As it connects back to Gilgit Baltistan. This province is the tourist hotspot for adventurers and explorers. The province has a varied landscape ranging from rugged mountains, valleys, hills, and dense agricultural farms. Pakhtoons are famous for their bravery and loyalty. They have always played a keen role in the protection of this country’s borders. It shares borders with Afghanistan that makes it strategic.

Despite the difference Pakistanis are one nation (AikQaum) and Pakistan is from Gilgit Say Gwadar, Karachi Say Peshawar. As a nation “We keep integrity closest to our heart and patriotism at the top of our mind.” And this is how we are a united nation and this is united Pakistan.