The correct answer is: A. 1967
The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is an international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. It was opened for signature on July 1, 1968, and entered into force on March 5, 1970. The NPT has three main pillars: non-proliferation, disarmament, and the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
The NPT has been ratified by 191 countries, including all five nuclear-weapon states (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States). The treaty has been successful in preventing the spread of nuclear weapons to new countries, but it has not been successful in achieving its disarmament goal.
The NPT has been criticized for being discriminatory, as it allows the five nuclear-weapon states to keep their nuclear weapons while other countries are prohibited from acquiring them. The treaty has also been criticized for being ineffective in preventing the development of nuclear weapons by non-state actors.
Despite its shortcomings, the NPT remains an important instrument in the effort to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. The treaty has helped to create a more stable and secure world, and it has played a key role in the disarmament process.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Option B, 1970, is the year in which the NPT was opened for signature.
- Option C, 1971, is the year in which the NPT was ratified by the United States.
- Option D, 1974, is the year in which the NPT was extended indefinitely.