Kakuei Tanaka on China
TL;DR
Kakuei Tanaka's defining foreign policy action was his high-stakes 1972 visit to Beijing to normalize relations between Japan and the PRC.
Key Points
He visited Beijing in September 1972 at the invitation of Premier Chou En-lai to normalize relations.
The Joint Communiqué stated Japan recognized the PRC as the sole legal government of China and respected the position on Taiwan.
The PRC renounced its demand for war reparation from Japan as part of the agreement for establishing diplomatic relations in 1972.
Summary
Kakuei Tanaka's position on China is primarily defined by his historic 1972 visit to the People's Republic of China (PRC) as Prime Minister, which formally normalized diplomatic relations between the two nations. He undertook this mission as a significant political gamble, believing that establishing ties with the PRC was crucial for Japan's future prosperity and global standing amid the Cold War. The resulting Joint Communiqué terminated the state of war and saw Japan recognize the PRC as the sole legal government of China. Furthermore, the Japanese side acknowledged responsibility for past damage caused by the war and reaffirmed respect for the PRC’s position that Taiwan is an inalienable part of its territory.
During his time in office, Tanaka's government established relations on a foundation of principles including mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs. His diplomatic success was further highlighted by later visits from high-ranking Chinese officials to his private residence, even after his political downfall. His daughter later suggested that while current high-level diplomacy is strained, deeper private sector and cultural ties between the nations, following his groundwork, are essential for mutual benefit.
Key Quotes
The Japanese side is keenly conscious of the responsibility for the serious damage that Japan caused in the past to the Chinese people through war, and deeply reproaches itself.
What is your view on the Senkaku Islands? Some people say things about them to me,
Frequently Asked Questions
Kakuei Tanaka's most significant action concerning China was his successful 1972 visit to Beijing, which led to the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the People's Republic of China. This move was a major diplomatic achievement for him shortly after becoming Prime Minister.
In the 1972 Joint Communiqué, the Government of Japan stated it fully understood and respected the People's Republic of China's position that Taiwan is an inalienable part of its territory. The Japanese side affirmed it would firmly abide by the relevant principles of the Potsdam Proclamation.
Yes, the People's Republic of China declared it renounced its demand for war reparation from Japan in the interest of friendship. This was a significant financial relief for Japan at the time, as noted by his representatives.
Sources6
Joint Communiqué of the Government of Japan and the Government of the People's Republic of China
Joint Communique of the Government of Japan and the Government of the People's Republic of China
The Question of Taiwan in China-Japan Relations_Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China
Japanese leader's trip to China in '72 was diplomatic gamble
Kakuei Tanaka - Wikipedia
Kakuei Tanaka's greatest achievement was the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and China.
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.