From China to Bahrain: 10 Countries Backing Pakistan Amid India Tensions

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta -Tensions between India and Pakistan have intensified following a spike in cross-border violence and terrorist activity. The situation escalated after a deadly attack in Pahalgam on Wednesday morning, May 7, 2025, which claimed 26 lives.

The recent unrest is believed to be fueled by a series of attacks within Indian territory, allegedly carried out by Pakistan-based terrorist groups.

In response, the United States has stepped in to mediate, calling on both nations to maintain peace and avoid further confrontation. Meanwhile, China reiterated its support for Pakistan on Saturday, May 10, 2025, referring to the nation as a steadfast ally.

According to the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi conveyed this message during a phone call with Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ishaq Dar. During their conversation, Dar updated Wang on the latest regional developments.

“He reaffirmed that China, as Pakistan's All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partner and iron-clad friend, will continue to stand firmly by Pakistan in upholding its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national independence,” said the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as quoted by The Times of India.

Amid the rising tension, a number of Pakistan’s traditional allies have expressed their support across political, military, and diplomatic fronts. So, who are these countries backing Pakistan? Here's what English Jagran reports.

1. China

China is known as Pakistan's strongest ally. Both countries have close relations due to shared strategic and economic interests. Through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, China has made significant investments in Pakistan.

In response to the recent tensions between India and Pakistan, China called for restraint from both parties. However, on the other hand, China continues to show diplomatic support to Pakistan. One of the pieces of evidence of their military cooperation is the use of China-made J-10C fighter jets by the Pakistan Air Force, which reportedly took part in the conflict.

2. Turkey

Turkey supports Pakistan due to their common religious and cultural similarities. Turkish officials often advocate for Pakistan in public, especially regarding the Kashmir dispute. The two countries also collaborate in trade and defense, and often support each other in international forums such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

3. Azerbaijan

The main reason Azerbaijan supports Pakistan is out of gratitude for Pakistan's assistance during the Azerbaijan-Armenia conflict related to the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

As a form of reciprocation, Azerbaijan regularly provides support to Pakistan, particularly on the Kashmir issue, and strengthens military and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

4. Malaysia

Malaysia and Pakistan have warm relations and often align in addressing various issues related to the Muslim world. Historically, Malaysia has frequently supported Pakistan's stance in various international forums.

5. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has close ties with Pakistan in religious, political, and economic aspects. This kingdom often provides military assistance to Pakistan, which is reciprocated with political support, loans, and oil supplies.

Both are also actively collaborating on various issues in the Islamic world.

6. Iran

Iran and Pakistan have a long border and strong religious and trade relations, although they have differing opinions on border issues.

Iran supports Pakistan in several international matters to maintain regional harmony and cooperate in trade and energy security.

7. Iraq

Iraq and Pakistan have strong diplomatic relations, and share the same Islamic heritage. Iraq often supports Pakistan in international forums to strengthen political relations and solidarity among Muslim countries.

In response to the tensions between Pakistan and India, Iraq urged both countries to seek a peaceful resolution and expressed its concerns over the escalated tensions in these countries.

8. Kuwait

Kuwait supports Pakistan because many Pakistani citizens work in the country. Additionally, the two countries collaborate in defense and trade. Kuwait often shares similar views with Pakistan on regional and religious issues.

9. Qatar

Qatar has a friendship with Pakistan based on defense and trade cooperation, especially natural gas. Pakistan also supports Qatar in regional matters, and Qatar reciprocates this kindness on a global level.

10. Bahrain

Bahrain and Pakistan have a good relationship due to many Pakistani citizens living and working there.

The two countries also have a defense agreement, and Bahrain supports Pakistan's political stance in OIC meetings and various other platforms.