The Simla Agreement, also known as the Shimla Agreement, is a historic pact signed between the governments of India and Pakistan on July 2, 1972, following the Bangladesh Liberation War. The agreement was signed by the then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the President of Pakistan.

The agreement was aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan, which had escalated after the Bangladesh Liberation War. According to the agreement, both India and Pakistan agreed to resolve their disputes through peaceful means and bilateral negotiations, without involving any third parties.

The Simla Agreement also laid down the principles that both countries would adhere to while resolving their disputes. These principles included the respect for each other`s territorial integrity and sovereignty, non-interference in each other`s internal affairs, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

One of the key provisions of the agreement was the establishment of a Line of Control (LoC) between Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-administered Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The LoC was established as a temporary measure until a final settlement of the Kashmir issue could be reached through bilateral negotiations.

The Simla Agreement also paved the way for the release of prisoners of war and civilian detainees held by both countries following the 1971 war. In addition, the agreement provided for the withdrawal of armed forces to the positions they held prior to the conflict.

Despite the Simla Agreement being widely regarded as a significant step towards peace between India and Pakistan, the two countries have continued to experience sporadic violence along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir. However, the agreement remains the foundation for all subsequent bilateral negotiations between India and Pakistan.

In conclusion, the Simla Agreement was a significant milestone in Indo-Pak relations and provided a framework for resolving disputes through peaceful means. The agreement laid down the principles of non-violence, respect for sovereignty, and peaceful settlement of disputes, which continue to guide India and Pakistan`s interactions to this day.