Which statements are correct regarding Atal Behari Vajpayee's visit to China?
1) He was the first top-level leader to visit China in 1979.
2) He held the position of Defense Minister during his visit.
3) His visit was aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties.
4) His visit took place in 1976.

Choose the correct answer from the given options:

1 and 3

The process of normalizing relations between India and China spanned over a decade. The year 1976 marked the restoration of full diplomatic ties between these two nations. Notably, Atal Behari Vajpayee, who held the position of External Affairs Minister at that time, undertook a significant visit to China in 1979. Subsequently, Rajiv Gandhi became the first Prime Minister after Nehru to visit China. From that point onward, the focus has predominantly shifted towards fostering trade relations between India and China.