India, the seventh-largest country in the world by landmass, shares its borders with several neighbouring countries. Over the years, India has been actively engaged in agreements with these countries to strengthen relationships and promote mutual benefits. These agreements have played a vital role in shaping India`s foreign policy and regional diplomacy.
Here are a few key agreements between India and its neighbouring countries:
1. India-Bangladesh Agreement: In 2015, India and Bangladesh signed a historic agreement to resolve their longstanding border disputes. The agreement involves the exchange of 162 enclaves, enabling thousands of people to have their nationality recognized for the first time. The agreement also includes the construction of a bridge over the Feni River to facilitate trade and connect the northeast of India and Bangladesh.
2. India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty: The India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty was signed in 2007, replacing the previous treaty that was signed in 1949. The treaty seeks to promote peace, friendship, and cooperation between the two countries. It also recognizes India`s role as a security guarantor for Bhutan and provides for the establishment of a free trade agreement between the two countries.
3. India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship: The India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship was signed in 1950 and remains one of the most important agreements between the two countries. The treaty promotes close bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, including trade, culture, and security. It also recognizes the special relationship between the two countries and provides for open borders for their citizens.
4. India-Pakistan Simla Agreement: The Simla Agreement was signed between India and Pakistan in 1972, following the Indo-Pak War. The agreement seeks to resolve all outstanding issues between the two countries, including the Kashmir dispute, through peaceful means. It also provides for the release of prisoners of war and the return of territories captured during the war.
5. India-China Border Agreements: India and China have signed several agreements aimed at resolving their contentious border dispute. The most recent agreement was signed in 2013, which seeks to maintain peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The agreement provides for confidence-building measures, such as the establishment of hotlines and regular border meetings between the two countries.
These agreements illustrate India`s commitment to regional diplomacy and its efforts to promote peace and cooperation with its neighbours. They also provide opportunities for mutual economic growth and stability, especially with the opening of new trade routes and infrastructure projects.
In conclusion, India`s agreements with its neighbouring countries continue to play a crucial role in shaping its foreign policy and promoting regional stability. As India continues to grow as a global economic power, it is imperative that it maintains strong relationships with its neighbours to foster mutual growth and development.