| 1 | In the early 1970s, the focus was on rapprochement. | |
| 2 | China and Laos did not normalize ties until 1988. | |
| 3 | Since the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations 32 years ago, relations between the two countries have witnessed great development. | |
| 4 | China and Japan achieved normalization of diplomatic relations in 1972, opening a new chapter of bilateral ties. | |
| 5 | Effecting any lasting change in the two countries' relations is another matter, analysts say. |