In addition, as two important players in the international arena, the cooperation of China and the United States produces more than mutual benefits. Providing more public goods for the international community has become an area to work on. Both countries released a renewed statement on climate-change, which was viewed as important, tangible cooperation between the two countries. The two expressed the willingness to enhance cooperation on global food security, public health and global health security, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster response. The leaders also reiterated the importance of nuclear nonproliferation.

Xi's visit was of great significance in strengthening mutual trust. It is unlikely for two major powers to totally see eye-to-eye with each other. What counts is how to manage disputes and address disagreements in a constructive way.

The cyber-security issue has been seen as one of the core problems between the two counties. Ahead of Xi's visit, the U.S. president signaled a readiness to pursue sanctions against China over alleged "hacking of American companies", which resulted in heated discussion in the U.S. and increasing criticism of China. Xi did not sidestep the problem but made efforts to reach consensus with his U.S. counterpart that both sides should respond to malicious cyber activities. Further, the United States and China have agreed to establish a high-level joint dialogue mechanism on fighting cybercrime and related issues. Progress in addressing cyber issue not only cooled down the tension, but more significantly, built up the confidence for both countries to manage disputes.

In broader perspective, China tried to assure the U.S. that it would not be a challenger. Xi has made it clear that China respects the traditional influence and practical interests of the United States in the Asia-Pacific, which means that China would not seek exclusive interests in the region. China also clarified its support to the existing world order.

However, China has its own concerns and appeals. During the talks, Xi warned the U.S. to stay away from the issues relating to China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This was helpful for preventing miscalculation and would save the bilateral relationship from potential damage.

Actually, the leaders from both countries have worked out that informal meetings are an effective way for communication. After the talks at Sunnylands and Yingtai, President Xi and President Obama took a walk to the dining venue from the White House's West Wing, which was described as a "walk on an autumn evening".

The future of the China-U.S. relationship is still full of uncertainties. Pessimism about the future of the relationship is hard to eliminate, and China-bashers will continue to press their arguments. President Xi's visit is the starting point for both sides to promote mutual trust, concrete cooperation and communication, which will lead to a bright prospect of the bilateral relationship.

Su Xiaohui, Deputy Director, Department of International and Strategic Studies, China Institute of International Studies.

Courtesy: China&US Focus

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