Historical Image: The Chancellor in China
The article discusses the historical visit of German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt to China in 1975, marking a significant shift in the foreign policy of West Germany.
The article reflects on the pivotal visit of German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt to China on October 29, 1975, when he was welcomed to a banquet by Deng Xiaoping, the second most influential figure in China at the time. This visit was particularly significant as it marked the first time a West German Chancellor visited China, indicating a shift in West Germany's foreign relations as the country had moved from aligning closely with the Soviet Union during the Cold War to improving relations with the West. During his five-day stay, Schmidt engaged in discussions with Chinese leaders and explored the rich cultural heritage of China, highlighting the evolution of diplomatic relationships during this phase of the Cold War.