A conversation between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden on Feb. 11 offered hope of a healthy, renewed relationship built on patterns established over many decades. The two countries have always found a way to move forward, despite occasional setbacks.

Infamous for his ignorance of climate science, Donald Trump began to dismantle Barack Obama’s climate legacy soon after he took office in 2017. The newly elected president, Joe Biden, wants to restore the teamwork, but it’s a politically tricky proposition.

Europe finds itself in a dilemma as the United States seeks to enlist its help. It is reluctant to fully engage, as America wishes, in the major power competition because Europe’s rival in that case happens to also be its economic partner.

China has the potential to help Myanmar return to civilian governance while rehabilitating Beijing’s image on the global stage.

In light of various domestic pressures on both sides, neither China nor the U.S. has much room for compromise on a number of issues. Benign interaction won’t be achieved overnight. But, with care, it may yet be possible to repeat the “minuet” described by Henry Kissinger.

Easy as this may seem, patience has profound overtones. On the surface, the White House says it will take time to reset China policy. In truth, this indicates how tricky it is for America to handle the relationship. A tipping point is approaching, but leaders on both sides provide reason for cautious optimism.

A look at the new U.S. president’s actions in the early going of his administration offers many clues — and leaves some blind spots — about policy stances in a wide range of areas, including China. His choices for top cabinet-level positions and other senior leadership posts may be telling.

U.S. President Joe Biden has made clear that the U.S. wants to address trade issues with China according to international rules. China should agree on this point. But it’s far from clear what those are. A thorough update is needed.

U.S.-China relations have transformed throughout the past four years. Experts continue to ruminate on how rivalry and competition can be overcome to rebuild trust and cooperation.

President Biden recently gave his first speech on foreign policy after assuming office. While his speech focused more on competition with China, both China and the U.S. must establish ways to cooperate in order to co-exist.