Pakistan's Border Relations: India & Afghanistan

• Pakistan shares borders with several countries, each relationship shaped by political, economic, and security dynamics.

India

• Relations have been tense since the independence of both nations in 1947.
• The disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir is the primary cause of conflict, leading to wars in 1947, 1965, and the 1999 Kargil Conflict, along with ongoing skirmishes.
• Current issues include cross-border terrorism allegations, water disputes, and military confrontations along the Line of Control (LoC).
• Diplomatic relations fluctuate between near-war situations and periods of relative calm.
• Economic relations are minimal due to security concerns hindering trade normalization.
• People-to-people ties and cultural exchanges are fragile despite civil society efforts.
• Relations are strained, with formal dialogues suspended since 2016 after the Uri attack and subsequent military confrontations like the 2019 Pulwama incident.

Afghanistan

• Shaped by ethnic and political issues, particularly involving the Pashtun population and the Durand Line, which Afghanistan has never formally recognized.
• Pakistan's involvement in Afghanistan's internal politics increased after the 1979 Soviet invasion and support for Afghan Mujahideen.
• Relations with the Taliban regime after 2021 are mixed.
• Pakistan has historically influenced the Taliban.
• Current relations are complicated by border security, militancy, and cross-border attacks by Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
• Pakistan is a key trading partner, providing access to ports and trade routes.
• Instability and security challenges mar the relationship.
• The Durand Line is a point of contention with frequent cross-border skirmishes and issues related to refugee movements and militancy.

Iran

• Historically shared cultural and religious ties.
• Relations have experienced ups and downs due to shifting regional alliances.
• Iran was one of the first countries to recognize Pakistan after its independence.
• Impacted by security concerns along the Pakistan-Iran border, where insurgent groups like Jundullah have operated.
• Sectarian tensions between Pakistan's Sunni-majority and Iran's Shia-majority have influenced relations.
• Numerous energy projects have been discussed, including the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline.
• U.S. sanctions on Iran and regional security concerns hinder project completion.
• Pakistan's close ties with Saudi Arabia have sometimes strained relations with Iran due to regional rivalry.

China

• There has been a close strategic partnership since the 1960s.
• China is one of Pakistan's closest allies in the region.
• The relationship is rooted in mutual security concerns, particularly regarding India.
• The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a flagship project under China's Belt and Road Initiative.
• CPEC aims to enhance infrastructure and trade connectivity.
• China is Pakistan's largest source of military hardware and a key partner in technology transfer and defense.
• China has been a strong supporter of Pakistan in international forums, especially on the issue of Kashmir.
• Both countries collaborate closely on security, trade, and investment.
• Some in Pakistan have voiced concerns about the long-term debt implications of Chinese investments under CPEC.
• Concerns exist related to CPEC transparency.

Other Neighbors

• Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh are part of the broader South Asian regional dynamics, despite not sharing a direct border.
• Relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh have been strained since Bangladesh's independence in 1971 after a civil war.
• Historical grievances over the events of 1971 continue to affect relations.
• Pakistan maintains diplomatic relations with Nepal and Bhutan, focused on regional cooperation under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

Conclusion:

• Relations with neighbors are shaped by historical grievances, security concerns, and economic interests.
• Ties with China remain strong.
• Relations with India, Afghanistan, and Iran fluctuate due to border disputes, security threats, and regional rivalries.
• Economic cooperation, particularly through projects like CPEC, plays a significant role, but security concerns often complicate diplomatic efforts.