Xi Jinping Honors Jimmy Carter's Historic Role in China-U.S. Relations

Xi Jinping expressed condolences over Jimmy Carter’s death, recognizing his pivotal role in establishing China-U.S. diplomatic relations. Carter's tenure helped normalize bilateral ties, shaping modern geopolitics despite ongoing tensions, especially over Taiwan. His legacy includes the 1979 U.S.-China Science and Technology Agreement, significantly impacting both nations’ cooperation.

China's President Xi Jinping expressed his sorrow on Monday over the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, recognizing him as a key figure in the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations over 40 years ago.

Carter, who died on Sunday at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia, helped to formally establish relations with China during his presidency from 1977 to 1981. This initiative built upon the earlier groundwork set by predecessors Richard Nixon and Secretary of State Henry Kissinger in the 1970s. In his message to U.S. President Joe Biden, Xi conveyed "deep condolences," as reported by state news agency Xinhua.

Xi hailed Carter as a driving force in developing China-U.S. relations and fostering cooperation and exchanges between the countries. The Carter administration notably acknowledged Beijing's One-China policy in 1979 and severed formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, setting a new trajectory for China-U.S. relations. Despite conflicts, such as U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, Carter's influence on bilateral ties remains significant, especially highlighted by the 1979 U.S.-China Science and Technology Agreement.