Letters

Don't expect surprises at S&ED

Expectations for this meeting are muted-perhaps a good sign as it shows a maturing in the US - China relationship. The focus has shifted to making methodical if slow progress rather than on resolving major conflicts or arriving at dramatic breakthroughs.

There are of course differences in the objectives of the two sides and different perceptions of what constitutes progress. This enhances the value of the dialogue even if there are few high-profile successes to trumpet.