Q. Consider the following pairs:
Country – Important reason for being in the news recently
1. Chad – Setting up of permanent military base by China
2. Guinea – Suspension of Constitution and Government by military
3. Lebanon – Severe and prolonged economic depression
4. Tunisia – Suspension of Parliament by President
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
a) Only one pair
b) Only two pairs
c) Only three pairs
d) All four pairs
Correct Answer: c) Only three pairs
Question from UPSC Prelims 2022 GS Paper
Explanation :
Chad – Chinese Military Base
Contrary to some reports, there is no evidence that China has set up a permanent military base in Chad. While China has indeed expanded its military presence globally, including establishing a base in Djibouti, no such development has been confirmed in Chad.
Guinea – Military Suspension of Constitution
It is true that the military in Guinea suspended the constitution and overthrew the government in September 2021. This coup led to the detention of President Alpha Condé and the establishment of military rule.
Lebanon – Economic Crisis
Lebanon is indeed experiencing a prolonged economic depression. The nation’s economy is in crisis, with a significant devaluation of the Lebanese pound, leading to hyperinflation and widespread financial hardship.
Tunisia – Presidential Actions
In Tunisia, the president did indeed suspend the parliament and dismiss the prime minister in July 2021. This controversial move has been debated as either a step toward resolving the country’s issues or as an undemocratic power grab.
In conclusion, of the four cases analyzed, three are accurate representations of the events (Guinea, Lebanon, and Tunisia), while the statement regarding Chad is not substantiated. Thus, only three pairs are correctly matched.
