The South China Sea issue has been a long-term topic for China-U.S. relations. Where did the disputes originate and what are the fundamental reasons behind them? How could China better explain its goals and minimize misunderstanding? What efforts should the two countries take to prevent an escalation of tension?

Zhou Bo, senior fellow of CISS and a retired senior colonel, shares his views on the South China Sea disputes and offers suggestions to both China and the U.S. on how to maintain stability in the region.