Abstract

Pakistan and Afghanistan are geo-politically and geo-strategically interlocked with each other and so the growing Indian influence in Afghanistan is a matter of grave concern for Pakistan. The affairs in Afghanistan directly affect Pakistan due to its location cultural, historical, linguistic, religious and traditional ties; thus, Pakistan’s strategic strength lies in a strong and stable Afghanistan. The conflict scenario between traditional rivals in South Asia, India and Pakistan are coming to front with a new dimension in Afghanistan. Therefore, India is trying to achieve a significant soft role and make her presence justified there in order to achieve her broader objectives via Afghanistan. Although, there will remain a sizeable US presence in Afghanistan, but Indian presence is providing local socio-economic infrastructure and civil, military and political services to promote peace and sanctuary in the war-torn country, which is a sources of fear and anxiety for Pakistan. The paper examines the strategic interests and the level of cooperation and influence of India in Afghanistan and its implications for Pakistan.