Les relations politiques francochinoises de 1949 à 1983 : entre mythe et réalité

Abstract

This article tells the history of political relations between France and the People’s Republic of
China, since the founding of the latter in 1949 until the early 1980s. The first period, between
1949 and the recognition of China by France in 1964, is marked by the tensions of the Cold War
and the decolonization which prevents the two countries from getting closer. Between 1964 and
1976, political relations between France and China are symbolized by the historic gesture of de
Gaulle, high-level visits, and strong statements of friendship, without the two countries being able
to advance together on important international issues. With the policy of reform and openness in
China and the Giscardian policy of détente, Franco-Chinese relations lose their exceptional character
and turn towards normalization.