What defines 'bilateral relations'?

Bilateral relations refer specifically to the diplomatic interactions and agreements that take place between two sovereign states. This term encompasses a wide range of activities, including trade agreements, diplomatic negotiations, and collaborative efforts in various sectors such as security, culture, and environmental issues. When two countries engage in bilateral relations, they often work to enhance mutual interests and address shared challenges, leading to tailored agreements that can benefit both parties.

In contrast, the other options concern broader or different types of relationships. Diplomatic relations among multiple states involve multilateral engagement, which is significantly different from the one-on-one interactions characterized by bilateral relations. Economic partnerships among several countries suggest a multilateral framework, such as trade organizations or economic blocs, rather than a focused agreement between two nations. Cultural exchange programs can involve multiple countries as participants but may not necessarily reflect the bilateral nature of diplomacy, which focuses on direct agreements and negotiations between two specific states. Therefore, option B accurately captures the essence of what bilateral relations entail.