The ability authors, musicians, and filmmakers have to tell stories can transcend geopolitics, but the current state of U.S.-China affairs offers almost nothing in terms of a meeting ground for the creatives of either side to exchange ideas. Repairing the cross-Pacific relationship will only get harder if big thinkers and storytellers cannot find a way to communicate.

The former general secretary of the CPC was a charismatic and creative guide for his country through turbulent times, from 1989 to 2002. Always affable and open to the ideas of others, he won the respect and admiration of all, even his political opponents.

Jiang Zemin led an ascendant China into the world stage through economic reforms and deft diplomatic outreach - tactics that will be hard to replicate in today’s world, but lessons nonetheless from a strategic leader.

Republicans narrowly captured a majority in the U.S. House of Representatives, so President Biden will likely face more internal pressure to play tough with China. But there is also reason to believe that tensions will ease as Trumpism fades.

From student activist, to journalist, to a top diplomat, Jaime Florcruz is the man for the job. Given his unique and impressive history working and studying in China, and his expertise on America, it’s hard to imagine a better appointment for balancing the interests of both Manila and Beijing while not alienating Washington.

Chinese-style modernization is an important reference for other emerging countries. It will not alienate the human dimension, and it will not destroy traditional culture. Rather, it aims to develop a new form of human civilization through international cooperation.

The nature of scholar-to-scholar exchange between Chinese and American academics and students has evolved over the years. But as bilateral relations between China and the U.S. continue to deteriorate, it’s important to consider thoughts from past Chinese scholars who spent time in the U.S. And if we want to experience any kind of diplomatic breakthrough, we must remember that we’re often blinded by what our own society deems as right.

China’s international strategy is laid out clearly in the political report to the 20th National Congress of the CPC. It unambiguously states what China upholds and highlights what it opposes, reflecting a firmer stance and greater confidence in Chinese diplomacy.

With the terms “invest,” “align” and “compete,” America’s intent is clear — and it is not benign. The National Security Strategy does not hide the fact that the U.S. wants to suppress China and maintain its hegemony.

In seeking to understand Chinese-style modernization, one should note its evolution in both theory and practice. It presents developing nations with a meaningful reference to draw upon, rather than a rigid template.