Prime Minister Imran Khan praised Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan by saying that he was, for the people of Pakistan, “a national icon”.
“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,” he tweeted.
President Arif Ali also expressed sadness at his death.
Rasheed took to Twitter to post an old picture taken with the nuclear scientist, praying for his forgiveness.
“May Allah provide patience to Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan’s relatives and those who are mourning his passing,” he added.
PML-N President Shahbaz Sharif praised Dr AQ Khan, saying that the country has lost a true benefactor today.
Federal Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar prayed for Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan’s soul after hearing about his demise.
He paid tribute to the nuclear scientist by saying that he played a key role in making Pakistan invincible.
Defence Minister Pervez Khattak said he was deeply grieved over the news of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan passing, adding that “Pakistan will forever honour his services to the nation”.
Education Minister Shafqat Mehmood heaped praise on the nuclear scientist, referring to him as the “pioneer of Pakistan’s nuclear program”.
“Sad to learn of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan’s death. He was a pioneer of Pakistan’s nuclear program and contributed immensely to our security. May his soul RIP,” he tweeted.
Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan’s death was a loss for the nation.
