While pursuing cautious containment, the U.S. will want to avoid major military frictions. Biden may re-emphasize the role of military exchanges with China, which will create opportunities for military dialogue and exchanges at all levels.

While we wait for the Biden administration to transition into office, there are several steps Beijing should take to encourage a more productive relationship between the two governments.

The future of China-U.S. relations obviously depends on the two countries’ respective choices. The good news is that a window of opportunity is now open to create a new approach after years of turmoil driven by the Trump administration.

Recent events have left an unsavory impression of China on most Americans, framing the conflict between the U.S. and its rival power as a zero sum game. By focusing only on overtaking China, the U.S. risks being left behind as China’s plans for expansion circumvent American influence.

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership consists of all the major and middle Pacific Rim powers, save for one - the U.S. The assertiveness Asian countries are showing is indicative of the ongoing gravity shift in economic and political clout.

Relations cannot return to the past, but the two countries can move forward to achieve a certain degree of balance. Giving up on the future will serve neither themselves nor the world.

China-U.S. relations can be rebuilt under Joe Biden, but it’s important to be realistic about the domestic forces the newly elected U.S. president will face. Here are five suggestions to get the ball rolling.

Decoupling serves neither China nor the United States. Instead, it would impose grave economic costs on both countries at best and threatens a calamitous military clash at worst.

China and the United States identify areas of common interest and establish a reference framework for adjustments to bilateral ties. This is exactly the right place to focus additional effort.

China and the United States have long seen technology as both a sign of hope and a reason to worry. The impact of recent U.S. escalations against China remain to be seen.