Focus on common interests conducive to better China-US ties

Regarding the South China Sea, the primary U.S. concern is navigation freedom there, at least according to U.S. official statements.

As everyone knows, territorial disputes in the South China Sea have never impeded the free passage of vessels, let alone key shipping lanes there. And China, as a major trading nation in the region, has more reasons than any other to maintain navigation freedom on the South China Sea.

The United States, which is not a claimant to the South China Sea disputes, should stop its lopsided approach of exerting pressure on China while pampering other claimants like Vietnam and the Philippines.

But that does not mean Beijing will not welcome a constructive role by Washington in Asia, since Chinese President Xi Jinping made it clear that the Asia-Pacific is vast enough to accommodate both countries.

A smooth development of China-U.S. ties is a boon not only for the two countries, but for the whole world, and any serious setback in their relations will be a cause for worldwide concern.

It is hoped that Washington is on the same page with Beijing in building a new type of relationship between major countries which features win-win cooperation and mutual respect, instead of confrontation and zero-sum games.