EMBAR

Author:
Dr. Haqnawaz Ahmad
Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science Norbuling Rigter College, Bhutan

DOI: doi.org/10.58924/rjhss.v5.iss1.p27

Published Date: 17-Mar, 2026

Keywords: India, Pakistan, South Asia, Strategic Interests, U.S.

Abstract:
The region known as South Asia refers to the Sub-Continent countries within South Asia, also called the SAARC (South Asian Association of Regional Countries) entities. The geographic area defined as South Asia also includes the Eastern, Western and Northern neighbours to the Sub-Continent countries. The SAARC organisation is focused solely on the support and development of trade, commerce, industry and other economic co-operation in the SAARC region and consists of eight countries; India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan as the main members along with the Maldives as the main member only for the purpose of this organisation. This region carries considerable significance for multiple nations, including the United States, China, India, and Pakistan. Its strategic importance is particularly relevant for all the countries mentioned, especially for the U.S. India and Pakistan are the dominant political forces in South Asia. The South Asian region is abundant in natural resources, which contributes to its political and strategic significance. This paper will analyse the operating factors which have attracted U.S. in this region. Since cold war period U.S. has tried to balance Pakistan and India both, it also tries to contain China. This study will give a reflection of U.S. presence in South Asia in post-cold war period and after 9/11. Finally, the paper offers a comprehensive examination of U.S.-South Asia relations, focusing on strategic interests, critical challenges, recent diplomatic shifts under President Donald Trump, and trajectories for the future.

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