Generally speaking, the China-U.S.-Japan trilateral relationship is in a state of turbulence and serious imbalance. The Russia-Ukraine war and the latest Taiwan crisis have further eroded stability. Here is what’s needed now.

China’s aggressive manner of dealing with international relations has led to a harsh assessment of Chinese leadership in the global arena. To create a less hostile environment, Beijing needs to rehabilitate its foreign image - if not recalibrate its often controversial political goals.

The U.S.-China relationship started with uncertainty, and the consequences of this rocky foundation are seen today.

The two allies will feel the urge to escalate their positions on Taiwan as a way of testing each other’s loyalty. But intervention in the Taiwan Strait will leave the island in a state of strategic stagnation and will cause unnecessary regional turmoil.

The failure of the U.S. president’s Mideast visit in July can be attributed largely to insensitivity over the legitimate concerns of GCC countries. It’s yet another example of America’s long-standing pattern of pushing for its own agenda at the expense of others’ dignity.

It is counterproductive to set China and the ‘West’ up as rivals locked in an existential struggle over values. In light of the increasingly polarized views of the East and the West, it is crucial to steer clear of political absolutism to have a more truthful understanding and practical progress on a range of issues such as policy, education, health, etc.

Its biggest troubles come from Western sources, which have levied sanctions and provided military aid to Ukraine. While Russia has lost the ability to manipulate international politics, an alignment with China could add new variables.

Recent events in the Taiwan Strait have led to an outpouring of international concern regarding potential war between the United States and China. AI technology advancements, which these two superpowers are leaders in research, resources, and patents, would mean that the world has yet to see the most AI-driven conflict in history.

A China-U.S. military altercation and violence over Taiwan ought to be avoided. Several steps must be taken by both sides to ensure global stability, such as maintaining core values like patience, pragmatism, and some degree of empathy for different parties’ perspectives.

China-U.S. relations have worsened since Nancy Pelosi touched down in Taiwan. While Washington still largely believes that the PLA would not attempt an invasion for at least a few more years due to uncertainties and risks, the crisis is further pushing the two nations away from any type of compartmentalized collaboration or transparent communication.