What Are Neighbouring Countries?

Definition & Examples

Neighbouring countries (or **bordering countries**) are sovereign states that share a **land or maritime border**.

Examples

• Canada & USA — world's longest land border (8,891 km)
• France & Germany — Rhine River / land border
• Brazil — borders 10 South American nations
• China — borders 14 countries (most globally)
• Australia & New Zealand — maritime neighbours (Tasman Sea)

Maritime boundaries (EEZ, continental shelf) also create neighbour relationships under UNCLOS.