This is the fourth of five new threads, its focus is the often, to be polite turbulent, complex relationship with its neighbours, hence the title Afghanistan, its neighbours and non-NATO nations; yes, India, Iran, Pakistan, China and Russia.

There are numerous threads on this theme, including a number in the South Asia arena, so I have refrained from listing them all and chosen the most relevant IMHO:

1) China's role in Afghanistan: http://council.smallwarsjournal.com/...ad.php?t=16608
2) The Indian role in Afghanistan: http://council.smallwarsjournal.com/...ead.php?t=3166
3)Iran & USA allies in Afghanistan:stranger than reality: http://council.smallwarsjournal.com/...read.php?t=729

The South Asia arena: http://council.smallwarsjournal.com/...splay.php?f=74

I expect there can be cross-over between the topics, notably how the US, with NATO, respond to these nations interaction with the Afghan national government, the Taliban and each other. Not to overlook Afghanistan's "best friend" and often unhelpful, even hostile neighbour, the Pakistan military (including ISI) and Pakistani politicians.