U.S.-China: In search of strategic stability

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U.S. President Donald Trump hosted his Chinese counterpart in Washington on September 23-25, marking the second meeting between the leaders of the world’s two largest economies this year. The summit was high on symbolism, with Mr. Trump welcoming the Chinese leader on the tarmac of Joint Base Andrews. Later, at a state dinner, Mr. Trump said the leaders had “never gotten along better”. While the U.S. side placed considerable emphasis on the personal chemistry between the leaders and both parties agreed to hold more high-level meetings, there were few tangible outcomes on the structural issues that continue to strain the relationship.