Answer: The phrase "encouraging signs" refers to positive indicators or developments that suggest that something is improving or moving in a positive direction. For example, in the context of an economic recovery, "encouraging signs" might include an increase in consumer spending, a rise in employment, or a drop in the number of people filing for unemployment. In other contexts, "encouraging signs" might refer to positive changes in a person's health, or positive trends in a particular industry or market. Essentially, "encouraging signs" refers to any evidence that suggests things are improving, and that the future may be more positive or optimistic than the present.
Explanation: In the context of the text you provided, "encouraging signs" refer to positive indicators or developments that would suggest a positive outcome for the situation described, which is the ending of the war in China and the pursuit of peace in the region. However, the text states that the April and May drafts of a proposed agreement had harsh terms and sweeping provisions, and that the Japanese position involved the possibility of resorting to force if necessary. These developments are described as "not encouraging signs," meaning that they are not positive or optimistic developments that would suggest a successful outcome in the pursuit of peace in China. Instead, they suggest a difficult and potentially contentious path ahead.