United States and the People's Republic of China Establish Diplomatic Relations

The People's Republic governed mainland China while the United States continued to recognize the Republic of China government in Taiwan. From 1973, American and PRC liaison offices operated in Beijing and Washington while Taiwan's embassy remained in the American capital. [1]

On 1 January 1979, the United States and the People’s Republic of China established diplomatic relations. Jimmy Carter had announced the agreement on American television on 15 December. Embassies opened on 1 March, replacing the liaison offices that had handled official business since 1973. [1]

Washington recognized the government in Beijing as the sole legal government of China and ended diplomatic recognition of the Republic of China on Taiwan. It also gave notice that the defense treaty with Taiwan would end. At the same time, the United States said that cultural, commercial, and other unofficial relations with Taiwan would continue. [1]

Deng Xiaoping visited the United States in January. But difficult questions remained. Congress passed the Taiwan Relations Act in April, providing a framework for unofficial ties and defensive arms, to Beijing’s displeasure. [1]

Leonard Woodcock, the head of the American liaison office in Beijing, conducted the final negotiations under instructions approved by President Jimmy Carter. [1]

Related Diplomats

1. Chai Zemin [2] [3]

Related Reading

• China and the United States [1]
• Rival Governments and Recognition in Washington