Disruptive arms sales

THERE WAS A GREAT DEAL OF ANTICIPATION on either side of the Pacific, and indeed, beyond, prior to US Vice-President Joe Biden's visit to China, which started on Wednesday.

Such global attention underscores the importance the international community attaches to Sino-US relations, especially while the global economy remains mired in the fallout from the 2008 financial crisis.

As two big players on the world stage, Beijing and Washington should send positive signals to shore up global confidence. To this end, it is crucial that they continue to steer their bilateral ties onto smooth waters.