The Tianjin Treaty was signed in 1856 between the Qing Dynasty of China and several Western powers, including the United Kingdom and France. It was part of the broader context of the Second Opium War, which aimed to expand foreign trade and diplomatic relations in China. The treaty granted significant concessions to the Western powers, including the opening of more ports to foreign trade and the legalization of the opium trade. In addition to trade provisions, the Tianjin Treaty also allowed for foreign legations in the Chinese capital, Beijing, and established a framework for the protection of foreign nationals in China. This treaty marked a significant shift in China's foreign relations, leading to increased foreign influence and intervention in Chinese affairs.