US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, second from left, talks to Chinese President Xi Jinping during their meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday. Photo AP
Visit by Mattis opens dialogue that can chip away at the mistrust
While neither China nor the United States would willingly start a war, the rhetoric on both sides is so heated the risk of a mishap that could quickly escalate into conflict is ever-present and growing. A pledge to strengthen communication is a step in the right direction
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US-China trade war
US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, second from left, talks to Chinese President Xi Jinping during their meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday. Photo AP