On July 21, 1965, Pakistan issued a special set of stamps commemorating the first anniversary of the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) pact. This historic agreement, signed in Istanbul on July 21, 1964, by Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi of Iran, Field Marshal Mohammad Ayub Khan of Pakistan, and General Cemal Gürsel of Turkey, marked a new era of economic and cultural collaboration among the three nations. These stamps celebrate this landmark event and the unity it represents.
Design and Features
The set includes two distinctive designs:
- 15 Paisa Stamp
- Depicts an elegant image of hands holding a book, symbolizing the transfer of knowledge and collaboration between the three nations.
- Features a background map and the national flags of Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan.
- Color Scheme: Orange-brown, dark brown, and buff.
- Printed Size: 47×36 mm.
- 50 Paisa Stamp
- A multi-coloured design showing a detailed map of the three nations and their flags, alongside the RCD emblem, representing cultural diversity and unity.
- Colour Scheme: Vibrant multicolour.
- Printed Size: 54.3×31 mm.
Both stamps are finely printed using lithography, have a perforation gauge of 13×13 (c), and are unwatermarked.
Production Details
- 15 Paisa Stamp: Quantity printed – 15,000,000
- 50 Paisa Stamp: Quantity printed – 10,000,000
Technical Details
- Release Date: July 21, 1965
- Perforations: 13×13 (c)
Historical Context and the RCD Pact
The Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) pact was a significant diplomatic initiative undertaken by Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan to foster economic growth and strengthen political and cultural ties in a challenging global context. The agreement was born out of the shared vision of leaders Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, Ayub Khan, and Cemal Gürsel, who recognized the potential for regional cooperation in achieving mutual prosperity.
Goals of the RCD
- Economic Collaboration: Establishing frameworks for trade, joint ventures, and industrial development.
- Cultural Integration: Promoting cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between the peoples of the three nations.
- Infrastructure Development: Coordinating transportation networks, energy projects, and communication systems to facilitate connectivity and commerce.
Long-Term Influence
- Early Achievements:
- The RCD facilitated trade agreements and infrastructure projects, including improved rail and road links between member states.
- Cultural cooperation saw an increase in student exchanges and joint cultural programs celebrating the shared heritage of the region.
- Transition to ECO:
The RCD evolved into the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in 1985, with the addition of seven new member states: Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The expanded ECO further cemented the vision of the RCD, aiming for broader regional integration across Central Asia and the Middle East. - Legacy in Regional Diplomacy:
While the original goals of the RCD faced challenges, including political instability and economic disparities, its creation laid the groundwork for regional dialogue and cooperation. It remains a symbol of how nations with shared goals can attempt to transcend political and cultural differences for mutual benefit.
Message on the Envelope
The commemorative envelope accompanying these stamps provides a short historical account:
“On July 21, 1964, His Imperial Majesty Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi Shahanshah of Iran, Field Marshal Mohammad Ayub Khan, N.Pk., H.J., President of Pakistan, and His Excellency General Cemal Gürsel, President of Turkey, signed an agreement at Istanbul to establish the Regional Co-operation for Development (R.C.D.). July 21, 1965 marks the First Anniversary of its foundation.”
This official text underscores the significance of the occasion and the importance of these stamps in celebrating a year of regional cooperation.
Philatelic Significance
These stamps are valued for their thoughtful design and historical importance. Collectors are particularly drawn to the symbolic imagery of unity, the integration of national flags, and the high production quality. The detailed background provided on the commemorative envelope adds further depth to the story behind these stamps.
Have Your Say!
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