President Ford and his party went for sightseeing in the Summer Palace in Beijing. 

On February 24,Chairman Mao Zedong met with former US President Richard Nixon and held an extensive talk with him on issues of common concern.

On May 26, 1973, a delegation of scientists from the United States visited the Great Wall in Beijing.

On June 9,1973, Chinese and American swimmers and divers held a friendly competition in Guangzhou.

On May 21, 1978, Deng Xiaoping, Vice- Premier of the State Council, met Dr. Zbigniev Breginsky, National Security Advisor to the US President. During his visit, Breginsky discussed with the Chinese side matters relating to the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the United States. He told Deng Xiaoping that the US Government believed the Sino- US relations were of central importance to its global policy. The United States had determined to normalize its relations with China and was ready to accept the three principles for establishing the Sino- US diplomatic relationship proposed by China. China made a positive response to his statement. In early July the Chinese and American sides started talks on normalization of their relations. After 6 rounds of talks lasting for half a year, both sides reached an agreement. Joint Communiqué of China and the United States Concerning Establishment of Their Diplomatic elations was issued on December 16, 1978, declaring, " Starting from January 1, 1979, the Chinese and American sides will acknowledge each other and establish diplomatic relations." 

On January 29, 1979, Vice- Premier Deng Xiaoping and President Carter had a chat before their talks. During this visit, Vice- Premier Deng Xiaoping and President Carter exchanged views on the Sino- US relations, especially the Taiwan question and international situation. The Chinese and American sides signed a scientific and technological cooperation agreement, a cultural agreement and an agreement on establishing consular relations and opening consulate generals in each other country. Each side also agreed soon to sign air and shipping agreements, and send students and resident journalists to the other country.