China recently hosted the Central Asia summit, while Japan simultaneously held a meeting between G7 leaders. Both summits were successful on their own terms, and both teach us something about the geographic and political realities of the two respective host countries.

Europe is altering its China policy to reduce reliance on vital technologies, while seeking a balance between protecting its interests and fostering cooperation. And by shifting the relationship, we have the opportunity to heal divisions, and prioritize shared interests that have been, expressed, ultimately benefiting everyone involved.

Tensions between China and the West are being reinforced as assumptions about economic cooperation give way to national security rhetoric. Broad decoupling would be too difficult and costly for the West, while selectively reducing dependence on China in critical areas is seen as a more achievable goal.

Legislators in Washington should cease and desist in their political maneuverings on Taiwan. It’s only making things worse. Undermining the political credibility of the United States and damaging the interests of the American people is a dubious distinction indeed.

The Biden administration recently wrapped up two important state visits with President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea and President Ferdinand Marcos of the Philippines. The meetings signify that Biden is on a trek to improve and affirm ties with key Indo-Pacific countries, but it must continue this trend if the U.S. wishes to remain relevant in the region.

It’s no hidden secret that U.S.-China relations have been on the rocks in recent memory. Though both sides are willing to go through the motions of performative summits, the reality of policy taking shape on both sides belies the aggression coming from leadership from both countries.

President Joe Biden has expressed optimism about the U.S.-China relationship. But regardless of whether his positive outlook is warranted, disengagement is “not the way out.” Washington and Beijing must find a new way to get along.

The summit did not alter the overall direction of the United States or its core group of allies. U.S.-led competition with China only entered a new phase. America’s objectives have not changed, although it now sees the need to make adjustments.

American hand-wringing over China’s socialist system as an alternative for human development has led to a lot of mud-slinging. The U.S. is struggling to maintain its global dominance and is now turning to institutional tools.

This needs to happen if the two great powers expect to reconcile. But it won’t be easy. The Biden administration has continued to damage China-U.S. relations, even as it asks China to be restrained. China may find it increasingly difficult to trust the United States.