It is often said that Pakistan has always been on the receiving end when it comes to international financial assistance. The country’s younger generation frequently laments that their leaders have approached the world with a begging bowl, dependent on aid from wealthier nations. However, history tells a different story – one that showcases Pakistan as a generous nation that has, at times, provided economic, financial, and technical assistance to several countries that are now global economic powerhouses.

Few people realise that in the past, Pakistan extended economic and humanitarian aid to nations such as Japan, Germany, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, China, Iran, the UAE, and Afghanistan. Many of these nations, which are now highly developed, once benefited from Pakistan’s goodwill and support during their struggling years. Today, young Pakistanis seek visas for these very countries, unaware that their homeland once played a role in helping them stand on their feet.

Pakistan’s Contribution to Japan’s Recovery
After World War II, Japan was in ruins. The war had devastated its economy, infrastructure, and food supply. The country faced severe food shortages, and starvation loomed large over its population. During the 1950s, Pakistan stepped in and provided Japan with rice as humanitarian assistance to help alleviate its food crisis. The supply of rice was a critical support mechanism that enabled Japan to survive one of the worst economic and food crises in its history.

This act of generosity did not go unnoticed. Japan deeply appreciated Pakistan’s support and later reciprocated by investing in Pakistan’s industrial sector. During the 1960s, Japan actively contributed to Pakistan’s economic development, helping establish industries and assisting in feasibility studies for major projects such as the Karachi Steel Mills. This gesture not only strengthened bilateral ties but also ensured that Japan became one of Pakistan’s most reliable economic partners.

Pakistan’s Role in South Korea’s Industrialisation
In the 1950s, after the devastating Korean War, South Korea was one of the poorest nations in the world. The war had left its economy in shambles, with little to no infrastructure and severe shortages of essential goods. South Korea faced extreme economic hardship, and its textile industry, which had the potential to drive growth, was at a standstill due to a lack of raw materials.

Pakistan, recognising South Korea’s potential, stepped forward to provide crucial support. It supplied South Korea with cotton, which became the backbone of the country’s textile industry. This assistance allowed South Korea to gradually develop its manufacturing sector, eventually transforming into one of the world’s leading economies. Today, South Korean diplomats and business leaders acknowledge that Pakistan’s contribution played a foundational role in their country’s economic rise.

Saudi Arabia and Gulf States: A Legacy of Brotherhood
Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states are now known for their immense wealth and economic strength. However, there was a time when these nations lacked infrastructure, skilled workforce, and military expertise. During the 1960s and 1970s, Pakistan played a crucial role in helping Saudi Arabia develop its military, security forces, and infrastructure.

Pakistan provided military training and defense advisory services to Saudi Arabia, assisting in the establishment of its air force, army, and security institutions. Pakistani military officers and engineers helped lay the groundwork for Saudi Arabia’s defense capabilities, which remain strong to this day.

Moreover, Pakistani engineers, doctors, and laborers were instrumental in building roads, bridges, hospitals, and cities across the Gulf region. The UAE’s aviation sector, particularly Emirates Airlines, owes part of its success to Pakistan’s technical expertise. It is widely believed that the “EK” code on Emirates flights stands for “Emirates-Karachi,” symbolising the airline’s early reliance on Pakistani aviation professionals. Today, millions of Pakistanis continue to work in the Gulf, contributing to the economies of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar.

Pakistan’s Support to Iran
Pakistan and Iran have shared a close and fraternal relationship since Pakistan’s independence in 1947. Iran was the first country to officially recognize Pakistan, and over the years, both nations have supported each other in various ways.

Pakistan has provided humanitarian aid to Iran on multiple occasions, particularly in times of natural disasters. During devastating earthquakes in Iran, Pakistan sent relief teams, medical supplies, and emergency aid to assist the victims. Additionally, Pakistan has supplied Iran with food and essential commodities, strengthening trade and diplomatic relations between the two neighbouring countries.

Afghanistan: A Lifeline in Difficult Times
Pakistan’s assistance to Afghanistan is one of the most significant examples of its humanitarian and economic generosity. During the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in the 1980s, Pakistan opened its doors to millions of Afghan refugees, providing them with shelter, food, and education. To this day, Pakistan hosts one of the largest Afghan refugee populations in the world.

Beyond humanitarian support, Pakistan has played a vital role in Afghanistan’s education and healthcare sectors. Pakistani universities have granted scholarships to Afghan students, enabling them to pursue higher education. Additionally, Pakistan has built hospitals and schools in Afghanistan, helping to rebuild the war-torn country.

Trade between the two nations has also been a key element of Pakistan’s support. Even amid political tensions, Pakistan has continued to facilitate Afghanistan’s trade and economic activities, ensuring the survival of Afghan businesses and industries.