Exploring India's Border Relations & Regional Diplomacy
Discover comprehensive information about India's neighboring countries, their diplomatic relations, trade partnerships, border issues, and the complex geopolitical dynamics of South Asia.
India is strategically located in South Asia, sharing borders with eight countries and serving as a bridge between Central Asia, East Asia, and the Indian Ocean region. This geographical position makes India a crucial player in regional geopolitics and trade.
Pakistan shares India's longest international border and has a complex relationship marked by political tensions, trade potential, and shared cultural heritage.
China is India's largest trading partner but relations are complicated by border disputes and strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region.
Nepal maintains traditionally close ties with India, sharing an open border and deep cultural connections, though recent years have seen some diplomatic tensions.
Bangladesh has warm relations with India, being created with Indian assistance. Both countries share strong economic ties and cooperate on regional security.
Bhutan maintains exceptionally close ties with India, guided by the principle of mutual respect and cooperation. India is Bhutan's largest trading partner.
Sri Lanka maintains close ties with India despite occasional tensions. India has been a key supporter during Sri Lanka's recent economic crisis.
Myanmar serves as India's gateway to Southeast Asia, but relations have been complicated by internal conflicts and the military coup in 2021.
Afghanistan has historical ties with India but current relations are uncertain due to Taliban rule. India has provided significant development assistance.
South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation - India is a founding member along with most neighbors.
Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation - Alternative regional platform.
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation - India joined in 2017, China and Pakistan are also members.
India shares land borders with 7 countries (Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Afghanistan via disputed territory) and maritime borders with Sri Lanka and Maldives.
Bangladesh has the longest border with India at approximately 4,096 kilometers, followed by China at 3,488 kilometers and Pakistan at 3,323 kilometers.
India's relationships with its neighbors vary significantly - from very friendly ties with Bhutan to complex relationships with Pakistan and China. Most relationships involve a mix of cooperation and challenges.
China is India's largest trading partner among neighboring countries, with bilateral trade exceeding $125 billion, though the relationship faces political challenges.