The Transformation of Japan’s Policy Towards China on the Eve of the Normalization of Sino - Japanese Diplomatic Relations: An Examination Based on Japanese Diplomatic Archives

An examination of Japanese diplomatic archives shows that during the two decades between the post-war period and the normalization of diplomatic relations between China and Japan, the Japanese government made constant adjustments to its China policy in response to the evolution of the domestic and international situation. In the early post-war period, the Japanese government established diplomatic relations with the Taiwanese authorities, and Sino-Japanese relations were in a state of “political and economic separation.” In 1969, the Japanese government insisted on the “two Chinas” line, but due to the easing of SinoAmerican relations, Sato Eisaku’s cabinet began to consider official-level contacts with the Chinese government. In 1971, influenced by the “Nixon Shock” and the restoration of China’s legal seat in the United Nations, Japan adjusted its policy toward China and accelerated the process of normalization of diplomatic relations. In 1972, the cabinet of Kakuei Tanaka was established and set out to improve SinoJapanese relations, and the normalization of diplomatic relations between China and Japan was realized in September.