Wu Yanan, the commander of the Southern Theater of the People's Liberation Army, engaged in a conversation via video link with Samuel Paparo, the commander of the "Indo-Pacific Command" of the United States on Tuesday, marking a significant moment in the ongoing efforts of the two countries to normalize bilateral relations by, among other things, improving mutual strategic understanding.

The video call can be seen as a result of the consensus reached during the 2023 San Francisco meeting between the two heads of state, highlighting a concerted effort to address mutual concerns and reduce tensions.

The Western media often highlight the friction between Washington and Beijing, painting a picture of a relationship fraught with difficulties. A prime example of what causes such frictions was the visit of former US House of Representatives speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan in August 2022, which led to a significant deterioration in relations between the two sides. This dangerous, and unnecessary, episode underscored the complexities and potential flashpoints in bilateral interactions.

However, the 2023 San Francisco summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Joe Biden has opened avenues for dialogue and cooperation, suggesting a shift toward a more constructive engagement. Such constructive engagements are good news for the world.

In May 2024, another pivotal moment occurred when representatives from both countries met in Geneva to discuss artificial intelligence (AI). This meeting was of strategic importance, given AI's growing influence on global security and economic dynamics. The discussions in Geneva were preceded by US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen's efforts to improve monetary and economic coordination with China during her meeting with Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng in Guangzhou, Guangdong province.

These initiatives reflect broader efforts to manage and harmonize key areas of the US-China relationship. A leadership change will occur in the US in November following the presidential election, and a new president will assume office in January. Hopefully, the change of administration will lead to better bilateral relations.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's recent three-day visit to Beijing further underscored the need to improve bilateral relations. Sullivan's visit was notable not only for his meeting with President Xi but also for his interactions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and General Zhang Youxia, the first-ranked vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission, the highest military body in China. Such high-level engagements are crucial for bridging the gaps and enhancing mutual understanding between the two countries.

The Southern Theater Command, under General Wu Yanan, is responsible for the security of China's southern region. The region is particularly sensitive because of its geopolitical importance and the ongoing disputes over maritime boundaries and territorial claims between neighboring countries.

The South China Sea, in particular, remains a focal point of international attention due to its status as a critical corridor for global trade and its complex web of regional disputes.

Ensuring the safety and stability of the South China Sea is thus paramount for both regional and global security. The safe passage of merchant ships through this vital maritime route is essential to the growth of the global economy. Since trade conducted through the South China Sea accounts for more than 60 percent of global maritime trade, it is of the utmost importance that the US and China reach an understanding on maritime security issues and cooperate to prevent any potential conflicts.

Effective communication between the top military commanders of both countries is crucial for ensuring that incidents that arise are addressed promptly and with great prudence. Incidents happen; but it is up to the leaders to deal with them with wisdom. The problems that arise are a test of true leadership.

Interactions like the one between Wu and Paparo are necessary to prevent misunderstandings, which could escalate into larger conflicts. While challenges remain, the engagements between the two countries' leaders and military commanders offer hope for a more stable and cooperative future.

The author, founder of the China-Eu rope-America Global Initiative, is the editor of China and the World, and the creator of the Inspiring Series, a collection of books that aims to introduce China to the world. The forthcoming installment in the series is China: Inspiring Greater Bay Area.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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