Final answer:
Under Deng Xiaoping's leadership, China normalized relations with the United States, a move finalized during the 1970s that realigned global geopolitics and trade relations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under the leadership of Deng Xiaoping, China normalized relations with D. United States. The normalization of relations between China and the United States was a strategic move during the Cold War era to enhance diplomatic ties and trade relations. It was also a counterbalance against the influence of the Soviet Union. The historical meeting between President Nixon and Mao Zedong in 1972 signified the beginning of thawing relations, although it wasn’t until 1979 under Deng that full diplomatic relations were established. This shift in policy reflected the changing geopolitics of the time and gave rise to economic opportunities that benefited both nations considerably. Nixon's visit was a major step in formally accepting the Communist government of Beijing over the Nationalist exiled government in Taiwan.The ‘One China’ policy came into play during these negotiations, with the United States acknowledging Beijing’s stance that there is only one Chinese government, which includes Taiwan. Despite the complex history and the ongoing contentious relationship between China and Taiwan, the U.S. managed a diplomatic balancing act that remains sensitive to this day.