Qian Qichen played a direct role in some of the most dramatic moments in recent Chinese history -- including standoffs, efforts to build alliances, and historic summits -- and here he recounts these episodes from behind the scenes. Having witnessed and influenced high-powered political crossroads, he shows just how global relationships are delicately maintained through rarely seen negotiations. Qichen's remembrance covers world-changing events, including the thawing of China's relationship with the Soviet Union; Nelson Mandela's visit to China after his release from prison; the normalization of Sino-Indonesian relations; and the transfer of Hong Kong. As China continues to rise on the world stage, Qichen offers an inside look at its politics and relationships to other countries, helping us understand the past, present, and future of one of the world's greatest powers.