India’s foreign policy towards its neighbors over the last decade has been characterized by a mix of engagement, economic cooperation, and strategic assertiveness. Guided by the principles of neighborhood first, regional stability, and economic integration, India’s approach has aimed at fostering good relations while also addressing security concerns. This analysis examines India’s foreign policy towards key neighboring countries: Pakistan, China, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Myanmar.
Pakistan #
Engagement and Hostility: India’s relationship with Pakistan has been marked by a combination of diplomatic engagement and periods of heightened tension. The bilateral relations have been significantly impacted by cross-border terrorism, particularly following major attacks such as the Pathankot (2016) and Pulwama (2019) incidents. India’s response has included surgical strikes and airstrikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan, signaling a shift towards a more assertive stance on security issues.
Diplomatic Efforts: Despite the tensions, there have been intermittent attempts at diplomatic engagement. Initiatives such as the Kartarpur Corridor, allowing Sikh pilgrims visa-free access to a holy site in Pakistan, reflect efforts to maintain people-to-people connections and reduce hostility.
Challenges: The persistent issue of Kashmir remains a major challenge. The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the subsequent changes in Jammu and Kashmir’s status have further strained relations, leading to a significant diplomatic fallout and suspension of trade and dialogues.
China #
Economic Cooperation and Strategic Rivalry: India’s relationship with China is characterized by economic cooperation and strategic rivalry. While China is one of India’s largest trading partners, the trade imbalance remains a concern. Over the last decade, economic ties have been complemented by strategic competition, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Border Disputes: The longstanding border disputes have periodically flared up, with the most significant recent conflict being the Galwan Valley clash in 2020. This incident resulted in casualties on both sides and led to a severe deterioration in bilateral relations.
Diplomatic Engagement: Despite tensions, India and China have engaged in high-level diplomatic talks to manage the border disputes and maintain peace. Mechanisms such as the Special Representatives’ dialogue on border issues and military-level talks aim to prevent escalation and find amicable solutions.
Bangladesh #
Enhanced Bilateral Relations: India’s relations with Bangladesh have seen significant improvement over the last decade. The resolution of the land boundary dispute through the Land Boundary Agreement in 2015 marked a major milestone. This agreement facilitated the exchange of enclaves and resolved a long-pending border issue.
Economic and Security Cooperation: India has increased its economic assistance to Bangladesh, including lines of credit for infrastructure development. Cooperation on security issues, particularly in countering terrorism and managing cross-border crime, has strengthened bilateral ties.
Cultural and Historical Ties: Cultural diplomacy and historical ties continue to play a crucial role in the relationship. Initiatives to celebrate shared cultural heritage and the legacy of the 1971 Liberation War have fostered a positive atmosphere.
Nepal #
Complex Relationship: India’s relationship with Nepal has been complex, characterized by cultural affinity, economic interdependence, and occasional political friction. The adoption of a new constitution in Nepal in 2015 and India’s subsequent response led to a temporary strain in relations, with accusations of an unofficial blockade.
Economic and Developmental Assistance: India remains a key partner in Nepal’s development, providing significant economic assistance and investment in infrastructure projects. Energy cooperation, particularly in hydropower, is a major aspect of bilateral relations.
Geopolitical Concerns: China’s growing influence in Nepal is a concern for India. India’s policy has focused on balancing its strategic interests while respecting Nepal’s sovereignty and avoiding perceptions of interference.
Sri Lanka #
Strategic and Economic Engagement: India’s policy towards Sri Lanka has emphasized strategic and economic engagement. Post-civil war reconstruction and development in Sri Lanka have seen significant Indian involvement, particularly in infrastructure projects such as housing, railways, and ports.
Ethnic and Political Issues: The Tamil issue remains a sensitive aspect of bilateral relations. India has advocated for the rights of Tamil minorities and the implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Sri Lankan Constitution, which calls for devolution of powers to the provinces.
Regional Security: India has expressed concerns over China’s strategic presence in Sri Lanka, particularly in ports such as Hambantota. India’s policy aims to balance its strategic interests while supporting Sri Lanka’s sovereignty and development.
Bhutan #
Strong Bilateral Ties: India and Bhutan share a strong and friendly relationship, characterized by deep historical and cultural ties. India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner and a major source of economic assistance and investment.
Hydropower Cooperation: Hydropower cooperation is a cornerstone of bilateral relations. India has invested in several hydropower projects in Bhutan, which contribute significantly to Bhutan’s economy through electricity exports to India.
Strategic Partnership: The strategic partnership between India and Bhutan includes cooperation on security issues. The Doklam standoff in 2017, involving India and China in Bhutanese territory, highlighted the strategic dimension of the relationship.
Myanmar #
Engagement and Cooperation: India’s policy towards Myanmar has focused on engagement and cooperation, recognizing Myanmar’s strategic importance and potential as a gateway to Southeast Asia. Economic assistance, infrastructure development, and connectivity projects are key aspects of bilateral relations.
Security and Stability: India and Myanmar cooperate on security issues, particularly in managing insurgent activities along their shared border. Ensuring stability in the border regions is crucial for both countries’ security.
Balancing Influence: India seeks to balance its engagement with Myanmar against China’s significant influence in the country. India’s policy emphasizes support for Myanmar’s democratic transition and development while maintaining strategic interests.
Conclusion #
India’s foreign policy towards its neighbors over the last decade has been multifaceted, aiming to balance engagement, economic cooperation, and strategic interests. While significant progress has been made in improving relations with countries like Bangladesh and Bhutan, challenges persist with Pakistan and China. The overarching goal of India’s neighborhood policy is to foster regional stability, economic integration, and mutual development while addressing security concerns and geopolitical dynamics. As India continues to navigate its complex regional landscape, the principles of mutual respect, sovereignty, and shared prosperity will remain central to its foreign policy approach.
