THE recent visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to the United States illustrates the seemingly schizophrenic relationship between the two countries that makes the word "frenemies" seem so appropriate.

On one hand, clear progress was made on joint action at the United Nations regarding North Korea, which violated numerous Security Council resolutions by its recent nuclear test and rocket launch.

On the other hand, differences over the South China Sea remain as deep as ever. And, on the heels of Foreign Minister Wang's departure from Washington, the State Department condemned China on human rights.