to be rapprochement. In a 1979 reversal of previous diplomatic policy, the Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations ended the official recognition of Taiwan and caused the American withdrawal of troops from the island. It was the culmination of a warming of relations, effectively recognizing the People's Republic of China as the sole government of China. Détente The period known as détente, or "relaxation", between the United States and the Soviet Union during the 1970s was a time of rapprochement. Treaties limiting the scope and number of strategic weapons, including SALT I, were signed. This was partially in response to construction of missile defense systems, which would allow a nation to launch a first strike and shoot down retaliation. As such, agreements were signed to reduce the feasibility of a first strike, and further agreements sought to reduce strategic weapons systems, rather than cap them. This led to more cordial relations between the two superpowers. Methods and causes Rapprochement often begins with a joint policy, treaty or statement, such as with the SALT I treaty or the Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations. Often, the rapprochement occurs specifically in an attempt to counter another power, like with Chinese-American rapprochement targeted towards the Soviet Union. Likewise, France and the United Kingdom sought to counter the German Empire. See also The Great Rapprochement Entente Cordiale Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations Détente References Diplomacy