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.

If Democrats take power in Washington, the wind for U.S. relations with China will likely start blowing in a much more favorable direction. China should trim its sails and seize the opportunity.

The choice is clear: China and the United States can either find ways to make things tolerable or simply capitulated to ever-worsening relations and consequences that go beyond our imagination at the moment.