Abstract
Geopolitical relations among neighboring countries constitute one of the most important arenas of interaction within the international system, shaped by a combination of geographical, political, economic, cultural, and security factors. In the contemporary world, the increasing complexity of interstate relations has made it impossible to analyze these relations based on a single factor, and the need for a more comprehensive and multi-level approach has become more evident than ever. This study aims to present a conceptual model for analyzing geopolitical relations among neighboring countries and seeks to explain the different dimensions of these relations within a coherent framework. The research is based on a qualitative–analytical method and relies on library-based sources, geopolitical theories, and the literature of international relations. The findings indicate that geopolitical relations are the result of the interaction between geographical sources of power, the structure of regional and global systems, patterns of interaction, and actors’ perceptions. Within this framework, factors such as geographical location, energy resources, borders, cultural identities, political discourses, economic interdependence, and security considerations play a decisive role in shaping patterns of cooperation, competition, and conflict. The results further show that the geopolitical behavior of states is dynamic and multidimensional in nature, and governments rarely rely on a single strategy. Instead, they typically employ a combination of natural, economic, security, identity-based, and discursive tools to advance their objectives. Ultimately, the proposed conceptual model can serve as a practical framework for analyzing relations among neighboring countries and for formulating realistic strategies in the fields of foreign policy and geopolitical studies.