Step 1: Understanding the question
The question refers to the 1971 peace and friendship treaty signed between India and a country. India signed a 20-year treaty with the Soviet Union in 1971 during the Indo-Pak war. This treaty was critical during the liberation of East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh.
Step 2: Analyzing the options
- (A) China → India did not sign a peace treaty with China in 1971. This is not the correct answer.
- (B) Pakistan → India and Pakistan were at war in 1971, and thus no peace treaty was signed between them.
- (C) Soviet Union → This is the correct answer, as India signed the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation with the Soviet Union in 1971.
- (D) Bangladesh → Although Bangladesh was created in 1971, India did not sign a treaty with Bangladesh in the same way as with the Soviet Union.
Step 3: Conclusion
The correct answer is option (C) Soviet Union, as India signed a significant treaty with the Soviet Union in 1971.