An alliance is a formal agreement or association between two or more parties, typically countries, organizations, or groups, formed to pursue common goals or interests. Alliances can involve agreements on political, military, economic, or social cooperation and often aim to enhance security, mutual support, and strategic partnerships. The term is frequently used in international relations, where countries may form military alliances for defense against potential threats, such as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization). Alliances can also be seen in various sectors, including business, where companies collaborate to leverage each other’s strengths for mutual benefit. The essence of an alliance lies in the commitment to work together towards shared objectives while maintaining autonomy in other areas.