Consider the following statements: Statement I: Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe.

Consider the following statements:

Statement I: Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe.
Statement II: Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea.

Which of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, but Statement II does not explain Statement I
(c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect
(d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is correct

Correct Answer: (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I

Explanation:

• Both statements are correct. The Sumed pipeline, also known as the Suez-Mediterranean pipeline, is a strategic route for transporting oil from the Persian Gulf to Europe.

It connects the Red Sea to the Mediterranean Sea, providing an alternative route to the Suez Canal for oil shipments.
Possible Sources: Geographical and strategic infrastructure references.