Ruan Zongze, vice president of China's Institute of International Studies, joined representatives of the All China Journalists Association for a discussion in Beijing on Aug. 20. In advance of Chinese president Xi Jinping's visit to the United States in late September, Ruan's speech focused on the "Current Situation and Prospects of Sino-U.S. Relations."

Ruan Zongze, vice president of China's Institute of International Studies, joins representatives of the All China Journalists Association for a discussion in Beijing on Aug. 20. [Photo/Xinhua]

This year marks the 36th anniversary of the establishment of Chinese and American diplomatic ties. "Over the years, China's relationship with the U.S. has been likened to the four seasons. There has been the warmth of friendship, like summer, as well as a cold, distancing winter. However, cooperation has always been the mainstay," said Ruan.

Recently, these already fluid relations have undergone several dynamic shifts. China's surging development has given the country a rising global influence, an influence that has granted significant leverage in its relationship with the United States. "A mentality of maintaining a low profile on the world stage no longer exists, and China has begun to reevaluate its foreign policies," Ruan explained, going on to say, "Sino-American relations were once shaped mainly by the United States. However, China is now in more control."

China and the United States are currently involved in a heated dispute concerning cyber security. Additionally, developments in the South China Sea, as well as the establishment of both the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank have continued to strain relations.

Regardless of these complications, cooperation between the two nations remains the mainstay. Negotiations on a new Bilateral Investment Treaty are aimed at encouraging the economic growth of both countries, already their strongest area of cooperation. However, Ruan questions whether or not China and the United States have a suitable foundation for continued relations, saying, "In today's world, counter terrorism measures as well as economic ties have worked to unite our countries, but these issues are not strong enough. We must find a new path of mutual interest."

Stressing the importance of a new model of inter-country relations, Ruan urges both China and the United States to work together to establish a continued dialogue, saying "Difficulties in communication always exist. In a way, this is good news. It would be bad news if both countries stopped communicating." In his upcoming visit to the United States, President Xi will undoubtedly look to assure continued cooperation in his ongoing dialogue with American President Barack Obama.

Despite the many economic and political developments that have given rise to questions concerning the future of Sino-American relations, Ruan remains optimistic. Acknowledging the two nations' shared history and the necessity for collaboration, Ruan hints at what he sees as the future of Sino-American relations, saying "Increased understanding and open-mindedness in the domestic social roots of both China and America is paramount. It is the way forward."

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