Neighborhood Studies looks at the range of cross-cutting issues such as political developments, economic activities, cross-border activities and foreign affairs related issues and security surfacing in its immediate neighbors – India and China – in addition to its extended neighbors such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Maldives. The study focuses to explore and identify emerging priorities in the neighborhood and generate evidence and analysis.
Bangladesh has skillfully navigated the challenges of the Indo-Pacific by maintaining a balanced foreign policy, diversifying economic partnerships, and enhancing maritime security capabilities, demonstrating resilience and strategic foresight.
India has successfully managed its quest for autonomy and adeptly identified and exploited opportunities created by global contradictions by leveraging its geographical location in Asia to become a bridge between the East and West.
PM K.P. Sharma Oli's December 2024 visit to China strengthened Nepal-China ties under the Belt and Road Initiative, focusing on infrastructure, trade, and regional connectivity to boost Nepal's socio-economic development.
The relationship between India and Bangladesh, historically strong due to shared history, culture, and mutual interests, faces challenges following Sheikh Hasina's ousting, with concerns over minority rights, political instability, and Bangladesh's growing ties with Pakistan.
The nuclearization of South Asia poses threats due to the region’s volatile security dynamics and the proximity of nuclear-armed states India, Pakistan, and China where they have contested borders and histories of confrontations.
The declared agreement for normalizing the Indo-China border disputes marks a hopeful moment, but it must be viewed cautiously as it comes with ‘hope’ as it is expected to offer India a chance to stabilize its border and focus on other pressing issues.
The situation in Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka exposed the tip of the iceberg of the security architecture of the island nation, in which the threat towards Israelis is more than a conjuncture.
Kukur Tihar would not only boost tourism and strengthen the national economy but also serve as an impeccable means of dog diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, and soft power for Nepal.
