The summit did not alter the overall direction of the United States or its core group of allies. U.S.-led competition with China only entered a new phase. America’s objectives have not changed, although it now sees the need to make adjustments.

The shift has been limited so far, so China need not overreact. It should closely monitor where NATO is heading, however. The best way to deal with it is to run its own affairs well and buttress its ability to rise above external shocks and challenges.

The rapid decline in understanding between China and the U.S. has sparked concerns over the peaceful transition from one dominant power to the other.

Amid American retrenchment and Chinese expansion in Asia, the middle powers of the region are moving to reshape the region in their own image.

China is rapidly emerging as a major exporter of UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) technology and is developing command, control, communications, and intelligence networks in order to employ these systems in a broader offensive capacity. The future weaponization of these systems and their subsequent employment in disputed areas such as the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands carries significant implications.

Move to stop accidental conflicts by air or sea is latest sign of warming relations.

The “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” strategy is aimed at deterring Chinese coercion by deepening alliances and strategic partnerships. To this end, Japan has enhanced military cooperation with partners such as the United States and India to balance against Beijing’s more assertive foreign and security policy under Xi Jinping.

Japan’s defense minister criticized China on Monday for sailing an advanced stealthy nuclear submarine close to disputed islands claimed by Japan and China, saying the action had stoked tension.

Despite its lower profile, the dispute in the East China Sea may carry greater risk of drawing the United States into conflict with China than the various disputes in the South China Sea.

Asia is famous for its multiple civilizations and their core value systems that have guided Asian nations since ancient times. Recent decades have seen China making great contributions to regional economic growth and unity with its peaceful and rapid development. Common development will always be the hallmark of this great region.