pacific forum History of Pacific Forum

Issues & Insights Vol. 09 – No. 20

Though the national and strategic interests of the two nations can be very different, participants at the latest U.S.-China Strategic Dialogue pursued the same goal, with the same motivations. The participants, both Chinese and American, realized years ago that the rising power and influence of Beijing would require a new approach by policy-makers in Washington, and that only a dedicated and cooperative effort by both countries would help to ensure future peace and prosperity. Attempts at improving relations have been in the works for sometime now, and progress has been slow. Though the new administration in Washington promises a more concerted engagement with China, several observations from these discussions suggest that key issues could impede further progress.