ABSTRACT
Geographically, Pakistan delineates the north-western boundary of the Indian subcontinent, separating the South Asia region from the Middle East to its west and from Central Asia to its northwest. In addition to physically separating South Asia from the rest of Asia, the Great Himalayan Range also serves two other geological purposes. First, it is a necessary component of the monsoon system of South Asia. Second, it is the source of all of the major river systems in the northern parts of the subcontinent, in particular the Indus and Ganges river systems which are critical to the life of both India and Pakistan. Within the South Asia regional system, India clearly enjoys a dominant position, which in turn is a source of great consternation for Pakistan given the history of conflict and rivalry between the two states. India is also able to significantly influence Pakistan's relationships with the other smaller states of South Asia.
