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The article focuses on the relations between the United States and China, which the author describes as stable as of 2013. Topics addressed include the notion of strategic stability between the two countries as a form of symbiotic coexistence, China's increasing economic growth as a possible threat for both countries' relations, and the development of nuclear weapons by the two states which can presumably decrease mutual trust. Possible negative consequences of the U.S. - China relationship are also reviewed.

China is important to Americans but the United States is critical to China. Engagement has enhanced mutual understanding, but the asymmetry of the relationship often causes the Chinese to view American policy with suspicion and Americans to be insensitive to Chinese concerns. The Chinese seldom acknowledge that their own actions and statements shape American perceptions and policies; Americans often overestimate their ability to change China in specific ways while underestimating the cumulative benefits to the US of sustained engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]