Tensions between the U.S. and China in the lead up to the G20 summit in Osaka was nothing new, but what is new in this decade is the development of a working relationship between the Chinese and Japanese governments.

With relations normalizing between China and Japan, it is critical to focus on the two countries’ mutual defense and security concerns. There are several measures both countries can take — including reinstating regular security consultations, coordinating defense communication mechanisms, and cooperating on crisis management and prevention — in order to instate basic safeguards for the region.

Japan is increasingly tied to China economically. Could China one day replace the US as Japan’s main ally?

Japan’s China policy has traditionally been reactive to a more assertive US grand strategy. Yet, in recent years Japan and the US have traded roles, as Abe advanced a China strategy that cajoled more active US support. However, Trump’s confrontational posture against China should worry Abe.

Should U.S.-China trade tensions continue, and Japan and the PRC put effort into improving ties, American economic competitiveness with Japan for the China market could be harmed.

Security concerns will remain a barrier to Beijing-Tokyo rapprochement.

China and Japan will work for common peace and prosperity in the new era.

Abe’s dash to Beijing had a faint air of desperation about it, akin to flirting with someone you have no strong intentions of getting serious with to win back the attention of the one whose undivided attention you seek.

Abe has just concluded a visit to China and Xi is expected to reciprocate with a state visit to Japan next year. The warmth of the summit suggests that both governments are trying to smoothen Sino-Japanese relations in the face of Trump’s trade pressure.

The two Asian powers signed agreements including $30 billion currency swap.