UPSC Prelims 2003 Q35: Current Affairs – International Relations & Treaties
Consider the following statements regarding the relations between India and Pakistan:
1. During Shimla Agreement, Indira Gandhi and Zulfikar Bhutto agreed to maintain the sanctity of
LoC
2. Lahore Summit took place in the year 1997
3. Islamabad Summit was held between Rajiv Gandhi and Nawaz Sharif
Which of these statements is/are correct?
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- (b) 1 and 3
- (c) Only 2
- (d) Only 1
Answer: (d) Only 1
Explanation
India-Pakistan relations
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| 1. Shimla Agreement: Indira Gandhi and Zulfikar Bhutto respected the LoC | True — the Line of Control of December 1971 was to be respected |
| 2. Lahore Summit in 1997 | False: the Lahore Summit was in February 1999 |
| 3. Islamabad Summit between Rajiv Gandhi and Nawaz Sharif | False: the Rajiv Gandhi visit of December 1988 was with Benazir Bhutto |
Only statement 1 is correct.
Answer: (d) Only 1.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statements 2 and 3 are false.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 3 is false.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 2 is false.
- (d) CORRECT. Only statement 1 is correct.
Key point
Shimla 1972; Lahore 1999 (Vajpayee-Sharif); Agra 2001 (Vajpayee-Musharraf); Islamabad 2004.
Remember
The Shimla Agreement committed both sides to respect the Line of Control.
Common mistakes
- Placing the Lahore Summit in 1997.
- Pairing Rajiv Gandhi with Nawaz Sharif instead of Benazir Bhutto.
- Mixing the Shimla Agreement with the Tashkent Declaration.
Exam tip
Lahore bus diplomacy: February 1999.
Sources
- MEA — India-Pakistan relations
- Simla Agreement, 2 July 1972 (India and Pakistan)
- Lahore Declaration, 21 February 1999 (India and Pakistan)