The January 2000 visit to Washington of Lt. Pragmatically speaking, the most that can be hoped for is serious dialogue on issues of contention. Military equipment and technology transfers are not in the cards. An effort should also be made to start developing confidence building measures. China is reluctant to engage in broad strategic arms talks as it continues to expand its own nuclear and missile arsenals, but is nonetheless concerned about U.S. efforts to pursue theater and national missile defense.
China also sees U.S. arms sales as a legitimate topic for debate during arms control discussions.
China also sees U.S. overtures to India as undercutting Sino-U.S. strategic cooperation. In return, the U.S. worries about suspected Chinese arms sales and developmental assistance to North Korea, Pakistan, and others. While neither wants to be the first to drop the phrase, few would argue that meaningful progress is doubtful, absent some significant breakthrough on the issue of Taiwan. Until such time as the U.S. and China can find some common ground between these conflicting principles, a strategic partnership remains unachievable. Conclusion Several things are required if Sino-U.S. relations are to be improved.