Tashkent Agreement: NCERT Solutions - India’s External Relations

The Tashkent Agreement was a peace treaty signed between India and Pakistan on January 10, 1966, following the end of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. It was mediated by the Soviet Union in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, hence the name of the agreement. The agreement aimed to restore peace and normalize relations between the two countries.

Key Points of the Tashkent Agreement:

1. Ceasefire: The agreement called for an immediate ceasefire along the India-Pakistan border. Both countries agreed to withdraw their forces to pre-war positions and maintain peace in the region.

2. Principles of Peaceful Coexistence: The Tashkent Agreement emphasized the principles of peaceful coexistence and respect for each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty. It aimed to establish a foundation for peaceful relations between India and Pakistan.

3. Return of Prisoners of War: The agreement outlined the repatriation of prisoners of war. Both countries agreed to release and repatriate all prisoners of war, civilian internees, and detained persons within 30 days of signing the agreement.

4. Resumption of Diplomatic Relations: The Tashkent Agreement paved the way for the resumption of diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan. The two countries agreed to reopen their embassies and consulates and facilitate diplomatic communication.

5. Bilateral Talks: The agreement called for the initiation of bilateral talks to address other outstanding issues between India and Pakistan. This included discussions on the Kashmir dispute, economic cooperation, and cultural exchanges.

6. Non-interference in Internal Affairs: Both countries pledged not to interfere in each other's internal affairs. They agreed to respect the principles of non-interference and non-aggression, fostering an atmosphere of mutual trust and cooperation.

7. Joint Declaration: The Tashkent Agreement concluded with a joint declaration by the Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Pakistani President Ayub Khan. The declaration expressed their commitment to peace, stability, and good neighborly relations.

Significance of the Tashkent Agreement:

The Tashkent Agreement marked a significant milestone in India's external relations. It played a crucial role in normalizing relations between India and Pakistan after the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. Some key significance of the agreement are:

1. Peaceful Resolution: The Tashkent Agreement provided a platform for a peaceful resolution to the conflict between India and Pakistan. It helped prevent further escalation of hostilities and paved the way for diplomatic negotiations.

2. Resumption of Diplomatic Relations: The agreement led to the resumption of diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan, allowing for direct communication and dialogue on various issues of mutual concern.

3. Humanitarian Aspect: The repatriation of prisoners of war and detained persons highlighted the humanitarian aspect of the agreement. It showed a commitment to addressing the plight of individuals affected by the conflict.

4. Foundation for Future Talks: The Tashkent Agreement set the foundation for future talks between India and Pakistan on various unresolved issues, including the