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As the news emerged of an ill-fated event on Sunday, passing of the father of the Pakistani atomic program Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, top dignitaries from the rank and file of government, including Premier Imran Khan and President Dr Arif Alvi, have shared their condolences to mark the loss the country has conceded.
President Dr Arif Alvi has expressed sorrow over the demise of Dr Qadeer Khan. In a condolence tweet on Sunday, the President said Dr AQ Khan helped Pakistan develop “nation-saving nuclear deterrence”.
انا للّٰہ وانا الیہ راجعون
Deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan. Had known him personally since 1982.
He helped us develop nation-saving nuclear deterrence, and a grateful nation will never forget his services in this regard. May Allah bless him.
— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) October 10, 2021
In a tweet, Prime Minister Imran expressed grief over Dr Qadeer’s death. He said that the nuclear scientist was loved by the nation because of “critical contributions” towards making Pakistan a nuclear power.
“He will be buried in Faisal Mosque as per his wishes. My condolences & prayers go to his family,” the premier added.
Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr A Q Khan. He was loved by our nation bec of his critical contribution in making us a nuclear weapon state. This has provided us security against an aggressive much larger nuclear neighbour. For the people of Pakistan he was a national icon.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 10, 2021
National Assembly Opposition Leader Shehbaz Sharif termed Dr Qadeer’s death a “huge loss” for Pakistan. He said Dr Qadeer played a “central role” in making Pakistan a nuclear power.
Today the nation has lost a true benefactor who served the motherland with heart and soul. The passing of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan is a huge loss for the country. His role in making Pakistan an atomic power remains central. May Allah shower his blessings on his soul!
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) October 10, 2021
Federal Minister for Planning Asad Umar remembered Khan as the man who played an important role in making Pakistan ‘unconquerable’.
پاکستان کو نا قابل تسخیر بنانے میں ڈاکٹر عبدالقدیر خان نے کلیدی کردار ادا کیا. اللہ ان کو جنت الفردوس میں اعلیٰ مقام عطا فرمائے.
— Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) October 10, 2021
Defence Minister Pervez Khattak said he was “deeply grieved” over his passing and called it a “great loss”.
“Pakistan will forever honour his services to the nation! The nation is heavily indebted to him for his contributions in enhancing our defence capabilities,” he said.
إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعونَ
Deeply grieved at the sad demise of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan. Great loss! Pakistan will forever honor his services to the nation! Nation is heavily indebted to him for his contributions in enhancing our defence capabilities.
— Pervez Khattak (@PervezKhattakPK) October 10, 2021