Détente in the Taiwan Strait has raised questions about the United States' role in future cross-Strait relations. On the one hand, Washington welcomes and encourages peaceful interactions across the Taiwan Strait. On the other hand, however, it is increasingly concerned about Beijing gaining more control of the dynamics and direction of future cross-Strait relations. As some US analysts suggest, if Taiwan drifts towards closer relations with China, Washington has to reconsider its national interests. US anxiety over Taiwan is further aggravated by its perception of a rising and more assertive China in the Asia–Pacific region, as reflected by the emerging debate on US Taiwan policy and its overall strategy towards China. The role of the United States in cross-Strait relations is undergoing some adjustments as Washington 'pivots' its strategic focus to Asia and as its relations with China become more salient in its Asian policy. In the long run the rivalry between Washington and Beijing in Asia would eventually have a negative bearing on cross-Strait relations.