Four US-China dialogues already proving their worth

That the relationship between China and the United States comes under strain from time to time is most often a result of one of them misinterpreting the other's intentions.

That is why the four high-level dialogue mechanisms, which were agreed during President Xi Jinping's visit to the US in April, are both pragmatic and important, as they can help the two sides avoid any misunderstandings by enabling them to properly discuss and manage their differences and disputes.

The last of the first round of dialogues - on law enforcement and cyber security - was held on Friday in Washington, with the two sides agreeing to further cooperate on repatriating suspected criminals, and to work together to combat drug trafficking and strengthen cyber security - outcomes that reflect the call of Xi last month for countries to jointly tackle transnational crimes and cyber security challenges and advance common and comprehensive security.