Pakistan Studies/Affairs MCQs
Topic Notes: Pakistan Studies/Affairs
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
1
What is the status of the 'SCO University' network in which Pakistan's NUST and other universities participate?
Answer:
It is an active network facilitating student exchanges and joint research
The SCO University is a network of leading universities from all member states. Institutions like NUST in Pakistan participate in joint degree programs and research projects in fields like IT, energy, and ecology, fostering a shared academic consciousness in Eurasia.
2
The 2024-2025 relationship between Pakistan and Central Asian SCO members is best summarized by which phrase?
Answer:
Geo-economic Partnership and Connectivity
Pakistan's current focus is on turning its geographical location into a 'land-bridge.' The strategy involves transit trade agreements and the development of rail and road links to Central Asia, fulfilling the economic vision of the SCO Charter.
3
Which city in Tajikistan is the 'twinned' sister city of Islamabad, often used for SCO cultural diplomacy?
Answer:
Dushanbe
Islamabad and Dushanbe share a 'sister city' relationship. This cultural link is used to host student exchanges, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals within the SCO framework, fostering people-to-people contact between Pakistan and Tajikistan.
4
The 'Niazi' era of foreign policy (2018-2022) was noted in SCO history for its focus on:
Answer:
Pivoting toward Eurasia and strengthening ties with Russia
Under the government of Imran Khan, Pakistan made a concerted effort to 'Look Russia' and deepen its engagement with the Eurasian heartland. This shift was instrumental in broadening Pakistan's foreign policy options beyond its traditional Western-centric focus.
5
The 'Trans-Afghan' pipeline (TAPI) project is frequently discussed in SCO energy forums. Which country is the source of gas?
Answer:
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan is the source of natural gas for the TAPI pipeline. While Turkmenistan is not a full member of the SCO (it is a guest attendee), the project is a central theme in SCO discussions on regional energy security and stability in Afghanistan.
6
Which Pakistani official visited Tashkent in mid-2024 to attend the SCO Foreign Ministers' meeting?
Answer:
Ishaq Dar
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar attended the SCO-CFM meeting in Tashkent in 2024. During his visit, he reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to regional connectivity and the fight against extremism, setting the stage for the successful hosting of the CHG summit in Islamabad.
7
Which SCO member hosted the 'Sea Guardians' naval exercises with Pakistan in the Arabian Sea in late 2023?
Answer:
China
The 'Sea Guardians' exercises are conducted between the navies of Pakistan and China. These drills focus on protecting the sea lanes vital for CPEC and demonstrate the high level of interoperability between the two SCO partners in the maritime domain.
8
What percentage of the 'divisible pool' in Pakistan's NFC is determined by population, a metric used to argue for resources in SCO demographic debates?
Answer:
82%
Under the 7th NFC Award, population carries an 82% weight. Pakistan, with its population of over 240 million, uses this demographic weight to demand more representation and climate funding within regional bodies like the SCO and the OIC.
9
The 'North-South Transport Corridor' (INSTC) is a project Pakistan seeks to link with, primarily supported by which two SCO members?
Answer:
Russia and Iran
The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) is a multi-modal network connecting Russia to the Indian Ocean via Iran. Pakistan's diplomacy within the SCO focuses on linking Gwadar to this corridor to create a seamless trade route connecting North and South Eurasia.
10
Which Pakistani city hosted the first-ever 'SCO Digital Investment Summit' in early 2025?
Answer:
Islamabad
Islamabad hosted the inaugural SCO Digital Investment Summit in 2025. The event aimed to attract venture capital from SCO nations into Pakistan's tech startup ecosystem and to promote the development of 'Smart Cities' based on the Islamabad model.