Confrontations between the U.S. and China are being amplified by a lack of communication between the military leaders of both sides, even as officials from other national bureaus continue to meet. Without proper means to defuse situations, the risk for escalation runs even higher.

The arms trade market has always been an indicator of the international security situation, and various acquisitions are now clouding the future of the Asia-Pacific region. Several countries are currently engaged in the most significant arms race since World War II.

The core of the Chinese solution to the war is political. The international community has universally welcomed China’s diplomatic efforts, but different opinions have also been expressed. China must listen broadly to perfect its solution and persuade others.

As China continues to rapidly increase its nuclear arsenal, the United States and its allies are exercising strategic response options. But ultimately, it’s imperative that China curb its nuclear buildup to avoid an unwinnable three-way arms race.

Expectations should be kept within reasonable bounds. While China facilitated the diplomatic process between Iran and Saudi Arabia, the momentum fundamentally came from within the region. The successful mediation shows that China correctly understood the aspirations of the region.

If the two countries were able to reach a consensus on peaceful cooperation in developing and using resources on Mars for the benefit of humanity, it would be good news indeed. However, this is unlikely. China-U.S. competition in space is nearly out of control already.

Several countries are making attempts to play the role of mediator to reduce dangerous tensions in various regions. The United States and its closest allies have greeted such efforts with undisguised or barely concealed hostility. Such an attitude not only is unhelpful and counterproductive, it will further isolate the West in the international community.

Amid the souring stew if China-U.S. relations, the growing distance between the countries’ armed forces stands out as particularly significant. A halt in military interactions indicates high tension. The good news is that the two both sides agree that engagement still counts.

After years of distrust, Vietnam and the Philippines may finally have the opportunity to establish a truly consequential strategic partnership amid rising geopolitical uncertainty in the South China Sea.

Four key opportunities present themselves in Northeast Asia, and it's important to grasp them while we can. Compared with the various major structural challenges in the region, the opportunities are few and small. But there are signs that the situation is improving, albeit slowly.