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
41
What is the primary objective of Pakistan's 'Look Africa' policy initiated to diversify trade?
Answer:
Tapping into new markets for Pakistani pharmaceuticals, surgical goods, and rice
The 'Look Africa' policy is an economic outreach initiative launched to reduce dependency on traditional markets in Europe and the US. By opening new commercial sections in African capitals like Nairobi and Lagos, Pakistan has successfully expanded its exports to the continent.
42
Which mining project's international legal dispute was resolved in 2022, leading to a planned $7 billion investment by Barrick Gold?
Answer:
Reko Diq
The settlement of the Reko Diq dispute in Balochistan in 2022 was a major win for economic diplomacy. By avoiding an $11 billion international penalty and securing a fresh $7 billion investment from Barrick Gold, Pakistan restored investor confidence in its mineral-rich sectors.
43
The UAE-based 'AD Ports Group' signed a 25-year concession agreement in 2023-2024 to operate and develop which facility?
Answer:
Karachi Gateway Terminal (Karachi Port)
The Abu Dhabi (AD) Ports Group signed a 25-year concession to manage and develop the container terminal at Karachi Port. This multi-million dollar investment is part of the UAE's strategy to enhance regional logistics and Pakistan's effort to attract investment into its maritime infrastructure.
44
The second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in 2024-2025 focuses primarily on which area?
Answer:
Industrialization, Agriculture, and B2B cooperation
CPEC Phase II marks a transition from government-led infrastructure projects to business-to-business (B2B) cooperation. The priority is now on industrial relocation from China to Pakistan, agricultural modernization, and the operationalization of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to boost export-oriented manufacturing.
45
Which country remains Pakistan's largest single-country export destination as of late 2025?
Answer:
United States
Despite strategic shifts toward the East, the United States remains the largest single market for Pakistani exports, particularly in the textile, leather, and IT sectors. Maintaining robust economic ties with Washington is a critical pillar of Pakistan's economic diplomacy and balance of payments strategy.
46
Pakistan launched which advanced communication satellite in 2025 to boost its digital infrastructure and IT export potential?
Answer:
PakSat-MM1
Pakistan launched the PakSat-MM1 communication satellite in 2025. This multi-mission satellite is designed to provide high-speed internet connectivity and digital broadcasting services, which are essential for the country's growing IT sector and the 'Digital Pakistan' initiative aimed at increasing software exports.
47
Which Pakistani city was ranked as South Asia's cleanest city in 2025, an achievement used by diplomats to project a functional and sustainable urban image?
Answer:
Islamabad
Islamabad was declared the cleanest city in South Asia in 2025. This achievement is a cornerstone of Pakistan's urban diplomacy and 'Green Pakistan' narrative, demonstrating the success of robust municipal management, waste processing, and green initiatives in the capital city.
48
In October 2024, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed 27 MoUs and agreements worth how much during a high-level investment summit in Islamabad?
Answer:
$2.2 Billion
During the visit of a high-level Saudi investment delegation in October 2024, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed 27 MoUs and agreements worth $2.2 billion. These agreements cover various sectors such as construction, agriculture, energy, mining, and human resource development, signifying a shift from financial aid to a deep-rooted economic partnership.
49
Which specific body was established in 2023 to act as a 'single-window' platform for attracting foreign investment into Pakistan?
Answer:
Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC)
The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) was established in mid-2023 as a hybrid civil-military forum to fast-track foreign direct investment (FDI). It focuses on key sectors including agriculture, mining, information technology, and energy, particularly targeting sovereign wealth funds from Gulf countries and China.
50
Which Gulf state's sovereign wealth fund, the 'Qatar Investment Authority' (QIA), has discussed a $2 billion investment in Pakistan's energy and aviation sectors in 2024-2025?
Answer:
Qatar
Qatar has shown strong interest in investing in Pakistan's state-owned enterprises (SOEs). The QIA's discussions revolve around the management and outsourcing of major airports and investing in renewable energy projects, reflecting Qatar's strategy of deepening economic footprints in South Asia.