Normalization Communique (1979)

On January 1, 1979, the US and the PRC agreed to recognize each other and established diplomatic relations. Within this context, the US vowed to maintain "cultural, commercial and other unofficial relations" with the people of Taiwan. The US and the PRC reaffirmed: "The US acknowledges the Chinese position that there is but one China and Taiwan is part of China." President Carter pledged: "We will continue to have an interest in the peaceful resolution of the Taiwan issue. I have paid special attention to ensuring that normalization of relations between our country and the PRC will not jeopardize the well being of the people of Taiwan." Through this treaty, the US vows to continue to seek a peaceful resolution of Taiwan's status. The treaty guarantees that -although the US established diplomatic relations with the PRC- the people of Taiwan are not abandoned.