Pew Survey reveals strategic divides between India and Pakistan

A Pew Research Center global attitudes survey reveals deep-seated mistrust and divergent strategic priorities between India and Pakistan. In India, 41% of respondents identify Pakistan as the country's greatest threat, while China remains a significant concern for approximately one-third of the population. Conversely, 90% of Pakistanis view India as a major threat.

The survey highlights distinct international alignments for both nations. India shows a growing positive sentiment toward Russia, with 58% of respondents expressing a favorable view, marking a 12-percentage-point increase from 2024. Meanwhile, Pakistan maintains a heavy reliance on China, with 75% of Pakistanis viewing China as their primary ally and 84% describing it as a trustworthy partner.

Within India, religious demographics show varying perspectives on Pakistan; 21% of Indian Muslims expressed a positive view of Pakistan, compared to 6% of Hindus. The data also reflects the impact of recent regional tensions, including military escalations and the suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, which have heightened military and overall friction between the two neighbors.