McCain believes that China and the rapidly developing nations of Asia are growing into stronger economic competitors. His economic and trade policies are designed to improve America's global competitiveness.

Unlike the Democratic contenders, McCain supports increasing global integration. He has urged Americans to reject the "siren song of protectionism" and embrace a future of free trade.

However, even the Republican president would have to cooperate with the Democratic majority of the Congress. He would also face strong internal opposition. Along with the "human-rights wing" of the Democrats, the evangelical conservatives of the Republican Party are antagonistic toward China.

In 2007, for the first time, China - not the US - became the single most important contributor to world growth. Together, the US and China fueled nearly half of global growth, as measured by purchasing power parity.

Among the presidential candidates, there is a strong bipartisan consensus on the importance of US-Chinese relations in the 21st century. But the two major parties take a very different view in terms of the strategic goals of the US-Chinese relations.

Clinton and Obama agreed to co-sponsor legislation that would levy punitive duties on Chinese goods. In contrast, McCain embraces global economic integration, which he believes can reinforce national security.

During the past eight years, Washington has engaged in unilateral security policies. If the next administration engages in unilateral trade policies, global prospects for security and prosperity will erode even more.

What the White House truly needs is a decisive, prudent and cooperative political leadership.

The author is the Research Director of International Business at the India, China and America Institute

(China Daily May 14, 2008)