Which country India signed a 20 year Treaty of Peace and Friendship in 1971?

The correct option is Soviet Union.

Step-by-step Explanation:

1. Historical Context: In 1971, South Asia was experiencing severe geopolitical tensions, primarily due to the political crisis in East Pakistan (which later became Bangladesh) and the massive influx of refugees into India. As conflict with Pakistan appeared increasingly imminent, India sought international diplomatic and strategic support.

2. Signing of the Treaty: To counter the diplomatic alignment forming between the United States, China, and Pakistan, India signed the Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation on August 9, 1971. The treaty was signed in New Delhi by Swaran Singh, the Indian Minister of External Affairs, and Andrei Gromyko, the Foreign Minister of the Soviet Union.

3. Duration and Impact: The treaty was structured as a 20-year pact. A key clause of the treaty specified that in the event of an attack or threat of attack on either country, both parties would immediately enter into mutual consultations to neutralize the threat. This agreement provided India with crucial military and diplomatic backing during the subsequent Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.