For achieving real results, the reciprocal unilateral style may turn out to be unexpectedly productive. The evidence of the past year suggests that a decision to maintain a real working relationship at the leadership level, after many years of deep doubt, has now been established in both countries. This relationship can allow each side to address the concerns and needs of the other without requiring in every case the official agreements and explicit linkages that formal bilateralism entails. Such a possibility does not mean the end of all differences of position between the United States and China. Like official bilateral commitments, reciprocal unilateral moves can entail domestic political risks.
Reciprocal unilateralism assumes three things.
First, it assumes maintenance of very strong, laborious but effective communication between the two administrations. This in turn demands a willingness to commit precious time and attention to a dialogue that will tax the resources of both sides. Second, reciprocal unilateralism demands consistent adherence to stable and durable priorities. Third, reciprocal unilateralism both requires and contributes to a sense of positive purpose and forward movement even in the face of inevitable storms and controversies. Reciprocal unilateralism must bring results in sensitive areas one step at a time, but it is the cumulative pattern that counts.