<P> Détente (French pronunciation: ​ (detɑ̃t), meaning "relaxation") is the easing of strained relations, especially in a political situation . The term originates in the time of the Triple Entente and Entente cordiale in reference to an easing of tensions between England and France who, subsequent to being commingled polities under Norman rule, were warring rivals for the better part of a millennium but pursuant to a policy of détente became enduring allies . </P> <P> In the context of the Cold War, the lessening of tensions between the East and West, along with domestic reform in the Soviet Union, worked together to achieve the end of communism in Eastern Europe and eventually the Soviet Union altogether . </P> <P> The term is most often used in reference to a period of general easing of the geo - political tensions between the Soviet Union and the United States; it was the distinct lessening of the Cold War . It began in 1969, as a core element of the foreign policy of U.S. president Richard Nixon, in an effort to avoid the collision of nuclear risks . The Nixon administration promoted greater dialogue with the Soviet government, including regular summit meetings and negotiations over arms control and other bilateral agreements . Détente was known in Russian as разрядка (razryadka, loosely meaning "relaxation of tension"). </P> <P> The period was characterized by the signing of treaties such as SALT I and the Helsinki Accords . Another treaty, START II, was discussed but never ratified by the United States . There is still ongoing debate amongst historians as to how successful the détente period was in achieving peace . </P>

During the cold war what was an american priority in southeast asia