Which agreement between West and East Germany established recognition and economic trade and cleared a path for UN membership the following year?

• A. Ostpolitik Agreement
• B. Four Power Agreement
• C. Basic Treaty
• D. Treaty of Moscow

Answer: (C)

The agreement focuses on formalizing relations between the two German states by recognizing each other as sovereign and creating a stable channel for everyday interaction. Signing this treaty in 1972 and putting it into effect the next year marked a shift toward normalizing East–West German relations, including supports for trade and practical cooperation. That mutual recognition and the accompanying framework made it possible for both Germanys to be admitted to the United Nations in the following year, reflecting their acceptance as distinct, legitimate states in the international community.

The other options either refer to broader policies or separate pacts that did not establish this bilateral recognition and economic framework between the two Germanys, or they address different issues like the status of Berlin rather than the bilateral normalization that opened the door to UN membership.