The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s principle that economic development and security are inseparable, is far more advanced than NATO’s exclusive security concept and will inevitably become mainstream in the field of international security.

NATO formally took a hard stance against Russia at its Washington summit, dampening the initiative. But without a rational understanding of responsibility for the war, peace in Europe will remain elusive, and security issues may spill over into Asia.

This year’s NATO summit spotlighted two pivotal issues: the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the future of the Indo-Pacific region. But the approach was low-key. The primary concern seemed to be the stabilization of aid to Ukraine to shield it from a possible disruptive victory by Donald Trump, who could return to the White House.

The two countries seek to show their commitment to advancing European sovereignty. Unfortunately, the United States will not allow it, as it believes greater autonomy for Europe would diminish NATO’s influence across the continent.

Facing a choice of autonomy or continued dependence on the United States, some factions on the continent seek to avoid that stark choice. In pursuit of a European pillar within NATO, the EU appears to be navigating a middle path.

The wisdom in China’s major-country diplomacy serves as a rudder in China-Russia relations. It is also the anchor that stabilizes relations with others, including the United States and European Union.

The international system seems unable to curb hegemonism and Cold War thinking, but China-Russia strategic coordination can mark a new path. As the two nations achieve win-win cooperation through the “five always” standard, the fundamental interests of the Chinese people will be served in the process.

The United States talks the talk but fails to walk the walk. It is angling to create a mini NATO parallel organization in the Asia-Pacific region by enlisting the Philippines and Japan. Its Cold War thinking only creates conflict and confrontation — hyping security threats and sabotaging peace and stability.

Talking, even through hard times, is not only necessary but also meaningful, because the audience is wider than just the two participants. People are listening at the bilateral, regional and global levels.

The French president has no intention of rushing troops into Ukraine without first getting his country’s allies to buy in. However, his rhetoric has be alarming, leading to serious discussions about escalation. It’s a very dangerous development.