The A word: an accomodationist strategy for US-China relations

Abstract

This paper argues that by identifying clear ideas about acceptable conduct in the key domains (Maritime, Space and Cyber) the US and China can avoid conflict without presuming away differences of interest or opinion.  Executive summary To avoid talking itself into a conflict with China, the United States should pursue a more accommodating approach. Too often worst-case fears are allowed to replace clear headed analysis of China’s capabilities and strategies. Establishing clear ideas about acceptable conduct in maritime, space and cyber domains should be the first priority to manage the relationship. Policy recommendations Maritime: To prevent or mitigate a military confrontation at sea, the United States should be explicit about what it wants to know about China’s maritime behavior, and present a clear and unambiguous understanding of expected actions in Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ). Space: The United States should work with Chinese military leaders to establish rules of the road for space and a bilateral communications channel between Joint Space Operations Command and its equivalent Chinese space agency. The US should also ask allied countries with stronger diplomatic ties to China to raise concerns about the country’s potentially destabilising behaviors. Cyber: Countries should engage in multilateral discussions that build upon the UN Disarmament and International Security Committee report; Crisis communication mechanisms and official points of contact should be developed among the region’s cyber incidence response agencies and relevant cyber officials