Simla Agreement Full Text

The Simla Agreement Full Text: A Comprehensive Guide

The Simla Agreement is a historic document signed between India and Pakistan in 1972. The agreement, which was signed in Simla, India, aimed to resolve the conflict between the two countries over the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The agreement is considered a significant milestone in the relationship between India and Pakistan and has played a critical role in shaping the dynamics of the South Asian region.

The Simla Agreement was signed on July 2, 1972, by the then-Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, and the then-President of Pakistan, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The agreement was drafted after the war between India and Pakistan in 1971 that led to the creation of Bangladesh. The agreement emphasized the need to build peaceful and friendly relations between the two neighboring countries.

Here is the full text of the Simla Agreement:

Article I: The two countries recognize the line of control (LOC) resulting from the 1971 conflict as a provisional arrangement. They will work towards a final settlement of the issue of Jammu and Kashmir.

Article II: Both countries will undertake to refrain from the threat or use of force against each other. This provision shall not, however, prejudice the rights of either state to take measures in self-defense or response to a threat.

Article III: The two countries agree to promote mutual contacts and exchanges in various fields.

Article IV: In Jammu and Kashmir, the two countries will work towards a final settlement and will encourage the efforts of the people of the state to determine their own future.

Article V: The two countries will take measures to prevent incidents and to ensure that incidents that do occur cannot escalate.

Article VI: The two countries will discuss measures to restore confidence and improve relations, including the possibility of resuming diplomatic relations.

Article VII: The two countries will work towards the establishment of durable peace and normalization of relations.

The Simla Agreement has played a crucial role in maintaining peace between India and Pakistan. The agreement recognized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving conflicts and paved the way for future negotiations between the two countries. The agreement also established the LOC as a provisional arrangement, which has helped to prevent further escalation of the conflict.

In conclusion, the Simla Agreement is a critical document that has shaped the relationship between India and Pakistan. The agreement emphasizes the need for peaceful and friendly relations between the two countries and has provided a framework for resolving the conflict over the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a reminder that dialogue and diplomacy are the key to resolving conflicts and maintaining peace in the region.