The security of the world requires its two superpowers to have clear and open channels of communication at a time when China is becoming more assertive in the global markets and regional politics, and the US is working with its allies in the Pacific Rim to insist on the continuing rule of international law. The future prosperity of all of us depends on that relationship flourishing, so it is good news when anything happens that makes it work better.
The dangers of miscommunication and rapid escalation of tension are all too obvious, as various armed forces gather around several disputed island groups in the South China Sea, and as cyber espionage on a huge scale continues with the active participation of Chinese government bodies. While the management of some global issues moves almost too slowly, like the efforts to stop carbon emissions and so keep the planet safe for continued human existence, others can explode in a few seconds. A semi-accident between two navies in contention over fishing rights could lead to a shooting war within minutes.
This is why the annual Strategic and Economic Dialogue between China and the US is so important. It is now in its fifth year and its latest round was attended last week by Secretary of State John Kerry and Treasury Secretary Jack Lew for the United States and Vice-Premier Wang Yang and top diplomat Yang Jiechi for China. The talks ranged with a varying degree of success over a complex range of issues including the value of China’s currency, how to handle North Korea, strengthening cooperation against terrorism, improving law enforcement and even military-to-military relations. But they did not make much progress on the two sensitive issues, which are the maritime disputes in the South China Sea, and cyber-spying.
The annual gathering was never expected to achieve any great breakthrough, but it was a very good arena for allowing both sides to take stock of any areas of danger and find where to encourage possible improvement, as well as to keep the communication channels open.
