Negotiating in good faith can stop trade war shots

That China and the United States are to have more trade talks is welcome news. That the two sides are to continue their discussions in Washington next week suggests they believe they can bridge their differences. And it is to be hoped that proves to be the case.

The fact that they are willing to continue to talk has raised hopes that some progress might have been made during their discussions in Beijing last week. Although the two sides failed to find solutions to their bilateral trade frictions, they seem, at least, to be no longer exchanging barbs.

If the two sides can continue to signal that they believe that continuing their discussions will come up with the goods, that would help to calm the widespread concerns a trade war is looming.