Naval drill may calm choppy ties with the US

Event highlights positive interaction between Beijing and Washington

An invitation by the United States for China to take part in the world's largest naval drill could mean smoother sailing for relations that have been through some choppy seas recently.

Just days ago, Pentagon chief Chuck Hagel accused China of destabilizing regional waters, but the drill, to start later this month, may provide an opportunity for both countries to better utilize channels of communication, analysts said.