Mistrust between China and US is getting worse, analysts say

China and the United States are finding it harder to accommodate each other, many observers believe, despite both nations putting a positive spin on the outcome of annual high-level talks.

Leaders from both sides used the talks to stress their determination to contain conflicts, and to highlight cooperation over economic, military and climate change issues. But political mistrust is worsening and new flashpoints could emerge easily, commentators warn.

"The talks ended with officials presenting their stances on critical issues but without convincing each other about their strategic intentions," said Sun Zhe, the director of the Centre for US-China Relations at Tsinghua University. "Neither side can present evidence that can change the mind of the other side."

Sun said it was unlikely frictions would escalate into a major confrontation, but mistrust was expected to deepen given the intention of the US to bolster its military alliances in Asia. Beijing would continue to strengthen economic cooperation with the US, but was prepared for a "struggle" against Washington.

"It is very difficult for the two nations to become partners in the aspect of strategic security," Sun said, adding the South China Sea was a potential flashpoint as both sides stepped up involvement in Southeast Asia. "Both nations are now at a point where they need to reset their ties."

Officials from both sides stressed neither power had the intention of containing or challenging the other. In his opening speech, President Xi Jinping warned of disastrous consequences if the nations could not manage frictions. US Secretary of State John Kerry said the US was not a rival to China.

The officials said they reached consensus on several issues such as North Korea's nuclear programme. The two militaries would also establish a notification mechanism, and discuss rules of behaviour covering military and maritime affairs.